November 1 , 2009
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Blessed Lord, You have caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning. Grant that we may so hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that, by patience and comfort of Your Holy Word, we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. AMEN!! (LSB, p 308: prayer 148)
REFORMED TO BE – NOW AND NOT YET!!
This week Saturday is Reformation day – a day we Lutheran’s celebrate when Martin Luther nailed the 95 Thesis (or statements) on the door of the Catholic Church beginning the Protestant reformation. A reformation (according to Dictionary.com) is: “the act of reforming and the state of being reformed” and being reformed means - forming again. This week’s readings show’s that we most definitely are REFORMED TO BE – NOW AND NOT YET! Confused? Read on….
REFORMED TO BE – NOW AND NOT YET!!
“After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." Revelation 7:9-10
Look at the picture of the great multitude – all wearing white robes and holding palm branches. White symbolizes purity (the white robe of righteousness), and the palm branches symbolize victory (as the victory of war). As followers of the Lamb we are REFORMED TO BE, pure, holy, and victorious NOW through the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ. But, we have NOT YET been reformed to the fullness of the Glory we shall experience when the Lamb comes again. When Christ comes again, ah, the Glory we shall see. COME LORD JESUS COME!!!
REFORMED TO BE – NOW AND NOT YET!!
“Praise the LORD. Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints. Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people of Zion be glad in their King. Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp.” Psalm 149
Because of the blood of the lamb we have been REFORMED TO BE: glad in our maker, rejoicing in our King, singing for joy, and adorned with salvation. We rejoice NOW, but NOT YET to the full extent of what the praises that will ring for followers of Jesus when He comes back!! When He comes back, ah, the joyful noise that will be heard!!! COME LORD JESUS COME!
REFORMED TO BE – NOW AND NOT YET!!
“Friends, NOW we are children of God, and what we will be has NOT YET been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.”
Because of the blood of the Lamb – Jesus Christ, we can NOW with all confidence call ourselves children of God. But, the reality of that title has NOT YET been made known to us. But when He comes, ah, when He comes we shall see Him fully, know Him fully, and realize just how blessed we truly are. COME LORD JESUS COME!
REFORMED – NOW AND NOT YET!!
“Blessed are…..” Matthew 5:1-11
We are REFORMED TO BE; BLESSED. NOW we are poor in spirit, we mourn, we are meek; and we hunger and thirst for righteousness; YET when we confess, repent, and trust in the forgiveness, grace and mercy of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, the Kingdom of God comes NOW to rule in our hearts.
“From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another” (John 1:16) - that’s ours NOW through Jesus. But, because we still live in a sinful world, in a sinful body, with Satan prowling around, we have NOT YET experienced the full extent of God’s Grace. But, when Christ comes again, ah, when He comes again, I can only imagine the blessing and Glory we shall see!! REFORMED TO BE – NOW AND NOT YET!! COME LORD JESUS COME!!!
Week ending: November 1, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Revelation 7: 9-17
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 149
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
1 John 3:1-3
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Matthew 5:1-12
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –
Saturday –
Sunday –
Monday, October 26, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR OCTOBER 18, 2009
October 11, 2009
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Lead us to Your Word! O almighty Father, lead us to Your Word, that we may find healing of heart, soul, and mind in the Gospel of Jesus. Be near us as we read for ourselves that Jesus has indeed died and has risen again for us. Keep us steadfast in Your grace and mercy, that we may spread Your love to those who haven’t heard the Good News,. And to those who have heard but have forgotten it. Let us do all we can to win souls for You, that they may go out and do the same. In Jesus’ most holy name, we pray. AMEN (Lin Flechsig)
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
I saw a U-tube video recently entitled “A Good Life Till the End.” It was written by The Reverend Forrest Church, pastor of a Unitarian Church, who was dying of cancer and decided to record his journey to death in a book and a series of U-tube videos. In the one I saw Church wrote: “We're all terminally ill. Life is a gift that comes with death attached.” How sad to think this life is all there is and we have nothing to look forward to but death! This week God shows us this life is indeed good till the end, but better yet is THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END.
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
“I realized that it is good and proper for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given him—for this is his lot. Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work—this is a gift of God.” Ecclesiastes 5: 18-19
Solomon had it all, wealth, power, family, wisdom, everything. It would have been very easy for him to focus on this life and feel content with his “good life till the end,” but, he wasn’t. After great soul searching God showed him this life was good and all that we have and our ability to enjoy it was indeed a gift from God. But, in the end it is THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END that mattered most.
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word.” Psalm 119:9
How do we enjoy this life? It’s not by accumulating wealth but: by Seeking God with all my heart, hiding His Word in our heart, learning His decrees, recounting all that comes from His mouth, rejoicing in His statutes, meditating on His precepts and ways, and by not neglecting His Word. And why does God put so much emphasis on His Word - Because that’s where we find out how to get THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END.
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
“Therefore God again set a certain day, calling it Today, when a long time later he spoke through David, as was said before: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts." Hebrews 4:7
Can you hear God? It’s almost as if He’s telling us, be content here on earth, enjoy the wealth and possessions I have given you, BUT don’t get to comfortable, there’s a day coming when all this will be gone, focus not on this life, but on THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END!! So how do we get this good life – it’s not easy, but it IS possible? Read on…
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
“With man it is impossible, but not for God. For all things are possible with God.” Mark 10:24-26
Church was right, we are all terminally ill because we all suffer from the illness of sin that brings death. Church was also right that life is a gift. But, he was wrong about death being attached to this life. THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END is impossible for us to attain on our own, but God gave us The WAY – Jesus Christ. Because of Jesus Christ, and the life He won for us on the cross, this life no longer has death attached to it. So go ahead, enjoy life and all that it brings, but fix your heart and mind on Jesus and THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END!!!(THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END” is paid for, in full, but God Himself. To get your FREE ticket just dial call J-E-S-U-S. This offer available to everyone, but it won’t last forever, so hurry, Call J-E-S-U-S TODAY!! I am Jesus and I endorse this message)
Week ending: October 18, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Ecclesiastes 5:10-20
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 119:9-16
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Hebrews 4:1-13
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 10:23-31
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –
Saturday –
Sunday –
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Lead us to Your Word! O almighty Father, lead us to Your Word, that we may find healing of heart, soul, and mind in the Gospel of Jesus. Be near us as we read for ourselves that Jesus has indeed died and has risen again for us. Keep us steadfast in Your grace and mercy, that we may spread Your love to those who haven’t heard the Good News,. And to those who have heard but have forgotten it. Let us do all we can to win souls for You, that they may go out and do the same. In Jesus’ most holy name, we pray. AMEN (Lin Flechsig)
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
I saw a U-tube video recently entitled “A Good Life Till the End.” It was written by The Reverend Forrest Church, pastor of a Unitarian Church, who was dying of cancer and decided to record his journey to death in a book and a series of U-tube videos. In the one I saw Church wrote: “We're all terminally ill. Life is a gift that comes with death attached.” How sad to think this life is all there is and we have nothing to look forward to but death! This week God shows us this life is indeed good till the end, but better yet is THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END.
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
“I realized that it is good and proper for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given him—for this is his lot. Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work—this is a gift of God.” Ecclesiastes 5: 18-19
Solomon had it all, wealth, power, family, wisdom, everything. It would have been very easy for him to focus on this life and feel content with his “good life till the end,” but, he wasn’t. After great soul searching God showed him this life was good and all that we have and our ability to enjoy it was indeed a gift from God. But, in the end it is THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END that mattered most.
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word.” Psalm 119:9
How do we enjoy this life? It’s not by accumulating wealth but: by Seeking God with all my heart, hiding His Word in our heart, learning His decrees, recounting all that comes from His mouth, rejoicing in His statutes, meditating on His precepts and ways, and by not neglecting His Word. And why does God put so much emphasis on His Word - Because that’s where we find out how to get THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END.
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
“Therefore God again set a certain day, calling it Today, when a long time later he spoke through David, as was said before: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts." Hebrews 4:7
Can you hear God? It’s almost as if He’s telling us, be content here on earth, enjoy the wealth and possessions I have given you, BUT don’t get to comfortable, there’s a day coming when all this will be gone, focus not on this life, but on THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END!! So how do we get this good life – it’s not easy, but it IS possible? Read on…
THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END
“With man it is impossible, but not for God. For all things are possible with God.” Mark 10:24-26
Church was right, we are all terminally ill because we all suffer from the illness of sin that brings death. Church was also right that life is a gift. But, he was wrong about death being attached to this life. THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END is impossible for us to attain on our own, but God gave us The WAY – Jesus Christ. Because of Jesus Christ, and the life He won for us on the cross, this life no longer has death attached to it. So go ahead, enjoy life and all that it brings, but fix your heart and mind on Jesus and THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END!!!(THE GOOD LIFE AFTER THE END” is paid for, in full, but God Himself. To get your FREE ticket just dial call J-E-S-U-S. This offer available to everyone, but it won’t last forever, so hurry, Call J-E-S-U-S TODAY!! I am Jesus and I endorse this message)
Week ending: October 18, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Ecclesiastes 5:10-20
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 119:9-16
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Hebrews 4:1-13
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 10:23-31
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –
Saturday –
Sunday –
Monday, October 5, 2009
Plunge Readings for Oct. 11, 2009
October 11, 2009
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Heavenly Father, we come before you in humble awe. You are the One true God, and there is none other like you. Come, we pray, and bless our hearts and minds as we study Your Word. Send Your Holy Spirit into our lives so that we may grow in love and grace, and that we may go forth into all the world, proclaiming Your Gospel so that others may learn of Your saving Grace. Amen (Lin Flechsig)
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
A friend told me about a Pastor that compared this world, and our journey through it, to the Titanic. Do you remember Titanic? You know, the big beautiful boat that everyone thought was unsinkable – until it sunk. What would Jesus have said, if He was on the Titanic? He probably would have warned them the ship was not unsinkable and to be prepared so that when it hit the iceberg, everyone could be saved. Like the passengers and crew of the Titanic, we are sailing along on a big beautiful earth that many think is unsinkable; except Scripture tells us it’s not. The question then is not IF, we sink, but WHEN, and WILL WE BE PREPARED!!!! What does Jesus say to us about our “Titanic?” As we near the end of the church year, our readings become more and more focused on the end times. Listen as Jesus tells us how to be prepared so we don’t “sink” eternally.
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
“Seek the LORD and live… Seek good, and not evil, that you may live; and so the LORD, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said” Amos 6:6 &14
Do you think the passengers and crew of the Titanic thought they would have to know where they lifeboats were? I doubt it, they truly believed the boat was unsinkable, why would they need lifeboats? WHAT DOES JESUS SAY? Don’t be those guys. Don’t let the beauty of this earth fool you into thinking it’s unsinkable – it’s not. The end is coming – the iceberg is inevitable. Jesus Christ is our lifeboat - climb aboard and live!!!
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
“So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom” Psalm 90:12 “But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today,’ that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end”… Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion." Hebrews 3:12-15
Do you think the passengers or crew of the Titanic counted the number of days until the crash? I doubt it. They didn’t know the iceberg was there, much less that they would hit it. They trusted in the reliability of the ship so they were comfortably having a good time. But are we any different? Don’t we get comfortable in the day to day activities of life, forgetting this world is only temporary and our journey here is oh so short compared to eternity? WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
Don’t get to comfortable here – it’s not your permanent home. Instead, number your days, encourage each other, share Christ, hold firm to Jesus, believing in HIM and the reliability of His promise of salvation.
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
“What must I do to inherit eternal life? …"Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Mark 10:17&21
What do you think the people who died on the Titanic held on to as the ship was going down? Jewelry? Money? Family? Friends? None of them bad in and of themselves, but at the end of the day – none of them were able to keep them from drowning. WHAT DOES JESUS SAY? Those things, no matter how good they may seem won’t give you eternal life. Give up everything, follow Me, and find your treasure in heaven!!!
Of the 2,200 passengers and crew members aboard the Titanic, only 750 survived - the rest died because the builders didn’t think the ship could sink so they didn’t put have in enough lifeboats. WHAT DOES JESUS SAY? "I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12
We know the end is coming, we know Who our lifeboat is, and we know there will be plenty of room for anyone and everyone.
Week ending: October 11, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Amos 5:6-7, 10-15
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 90:12-17
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Hebrews 3:12-19
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 10: 17-22
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday – what do you hear Jesus saying TODAY?
Saturday – Are you ready for His coming
Sunday – Listen to Jesus, Seek His face and live
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Heavenly Father, we come before you in humble awe. You are the One true God, and there is none other like you. Come, we pray, and bless our hearts and minds as we study Your Word. Send Your Holy Spirit into our lives so that we may grow in love and grace, and that we may go forth into all the world, proclaiming Your Gospel so that others may learn of Your saving Grace. Amen (Lin Flechsig)
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
A friend told me about a Pastor that compared this world, and our journey through it, to the Titanic. Do you remember Titanic? You know, the big beautiful boat that everyone thought was unsinkable – until it sunk. What would Jesus have said, if He was on the Titanic? He probably would have warned them the ship was not unsinkable and to be prepared so that when it hit the iceberg, everyone could be saved. Like the passengers and crew of the Titanic, we are sailing along on a big beautiful earth that many think is unsinkable; except Scripture tells us it’s not. The question then is not IF, we sink, but WHEN, and WILL WE BE PREPARED!!!! What does Jesus say to us about our “Titanic?” As we near the end of the church year, our readings become more and more focused on the end times. Listen as Jesus tells us how to be prepared so we don’t “sink” eternally.
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
“Seek the LORD and live… Seek good, and not evil, that you may live; and so the LORD, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said” Amos 6:6 &14
Do you think the passengers and crew of the Titanic thought they would have to know where they lifeboats were? I doubt it, they truly believed the boat was unsinkable, why would they need lifeboats? WHAT DOES JESUS SAY? Don’t be those guys. Don’t let the beauty of this earth fool you into thinking it’s unsinkable – it’s not. The end is coming – the iceberg is inevitable. Jesus Christ is our lifeboat - climb aboard and live!!!
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
“So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom” Psalm 90:12 “But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today,’ that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end”… Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion." Hebrews 3:12-15
Do you think the passengers or crew of the Titanic counted the number of days until the crash? I doubt it. They didn’t know the iceberg was there, much less that they would hit it. They trusted in the reliability of the ship so they were comfortably having a good time. But are we any different? Don’t we get comfortable in the day to day activities of life, forgetting this world is only temporary and our journey here is oh so short compared to eternity? WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
Don’t get to comfortable here – it’s not your permanent home. Instead, number your days, encourage each other, share Christ, hold firm to Jesus, believing in HIM and the reliability of His promise of salvation.
WHAT DOES JESUS SAY?
“What must I do to inherit eternal life? …"Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Mark 10:17&21
What do you think the people who died on the Titanic held on to as the ship was going down? Jewelry? Money? Family? Friends? None of them bad in and of themselves, but at the end of the day – none of them were able to keep them from drowning. WHAT DOES JESUS SAY? Those things, no matter how good they may seem won’t give you eternal life. Give up everything, follow Me, and find your treasure in heaven!!!
Of the 2,200 passengers and crew members aboard the Titanic, only 750 survived - the rest died because the builders didn’t think the ship could sink so they didn’t put have in enough lifeboats. WHAT DOES JESUS SAY? "I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12
We know the end is coming, we know Who our lifeboat is, and we know there will be plenty of room for anyone and everyone.
Week ending: October 11, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Amos 5:6-7, 10-15
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 90:12-17
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Hebrews 3:12-19
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 10: 17-22
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday – what do you hear Jesus saying TODAY?
Saturday – Are you ready for His coming
Sunday – Listen to Jesus, Seek His face and live
Monday, September 21, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR SEPTEMBER 27 & OCTOBER 4, 2009
September 27, 2009 & October 4, 2009
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Jesus, open my ears to hear the message our Father is speaking to me today. Holy Spirit, work in my heart so that Your Words will penetrate and transform my life to be more like Jesus, in whose name I ask this. AMEN
POWER OF THE SPIRIT!!
“And as soon as the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied.” Numbers 11:25b
God’s people can do speak powerful words when they let the Spirit of God move in and through them!!!
POWER OF THE SPIRIT!!
“I will sing to the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have being.May my meditation be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the LORD.” Psalm 104:33-34
God’s people can sing powerful praises when they let the Spirit of God move in and through them!!!!
POWER OF THE SPIRIT!!
“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” James 5:16b
God’s people can pray powerful prayers when they let the Spirit of God move in and through them!!!
POWER OF THE SPIRIT!!
“We saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us." But Jesus said, "Do not stop him, for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me. For the one who is not against us is for us.” Mark 9:38-40
God’s people can do mighty works when they let the Spirit of God move in and through them!!!
Believers in Christ Jesus are ALL, by Grace through faith, filled with the Power of the Holy Spirit – to believe, to pray, to praise, to heal, to speak, to live in the Name and in the Power of Jesus Christ. I will be on vacation next week, but I would encourage all of you to take the PLUNGE – let the Holy Spirit work in you to prophesy (speak) the name of Jesus, to sing praise to the name of Jesus, to pray in the name of Jesus and to work in the name of Jesus. Then, by the power of the Spirit, write your own PLUNGE devotion and post it - using either this week’s or next week’s plunge readings. God’s Blessings in the powerful name of Jesus!
READINGS FOR SEPTEMBER 27, 2009
• Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 25-29
• Psalm 104:27-35
• James 5:13-20
• Mark 9:38-5-
READINGS FOR OCTOBER 4, 2009
• Genesis 2:18-25
• Psalm 128
• Hebrews 2:1-13 (14-18)
• Mark 10:17-22
“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Jesus, open my ears to hear the message our Father is speaking to me today. Holy Spirit, work in my heart so that Your Words will penetrate and transform my life to be more like Jesus, in whose name I ask this. AMEN
POWER OF THE SPIRIT!!
“And as soon as the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied.” Numbers 11:25b
God’s people can do speak powerful words when they let the Spirit of God move in and through them!!!
POWER OF THE SPIRIT!!
“I will sing to the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have being.May my meditation be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the LORD.” Psalm 104:33-34
God’s people can sing powerful praises when they let the Spirit of God move in and through them!!!!
POWER OF THE SPIRIT!!
“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” James 5:16b
God’s people can pray powerful prayers when they let the Spirit of God move in and through them!!!
POWER OF THE SPIRIT!!
“We saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us." But Jesus said, "Do not stop him, for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me. For the one who is not against us is for us.” Mark 9:38-40
God’s people can do mighty works when they let the Spirit of God move in and through them!!!
Believers in Christ Jesus are ALL, by Grace through faith, filled with the Power of the Holy Spirit – to believe, to pray, to praise, to heal, to speak, to live in the Name and in the Power of Jesus Christ. I will be on vacation next week, but I would encourage all of you to take the PLUNGE – let the Holy Spirit work in you to prophesy (speak) the name of Jesus, to sing praise to the name of Jesus, to pray in the name of Jesus and to work in the name of Jesus. Then, by the power of the Spirit, write your own PLUNGE devotion and post it - using either this week’s or next week’s plunge readings. God’s Blessings in the powerful name of Jesus!
READINGS FOR SEPTEMBER 27, 2009
• Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 25-29
• Psalm 104:27-35
• James 5:13-20
• Mark 9:38-5-
READINGS FOR OCTOBER 4, 2009
• Genesis 2:18-25
• Psalm 128
• Hebrews 2:1-13 (14-18)
• Mark 10:17-22
“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9
Sunday, September 13, 2009
PLUNGE Readings for September 20, 2009
September 20, 2009
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Jesus, open my ears to hear the message our Father is speaking to me today. Holy Spirit, work in my heart so that Your Words will penetrate and transform my life to be more like Jesus, in whose name I ask this. AMEN
BREATHE GRACE!!!
Before we start, take some time right now, right where you are, to stop, be still and BREATHE GRACE!! Close your eye and take a deep breath. As you breathe think GRACE – God’s undeserved Riches At Christ’s Expense. Breathe fully, filling your lungs, your cells, your heart, your whole being with His love, His forgiveness, His mercy, His Son, and His Spirit. This week as we read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest His word, BREATHE GRACE!! Listen for the Grace that God breathes into us and then hear the Grace He wants to breathe out of us. Ready? BREATHE GRACE!!!!
BREATHE GRACE!!!
“I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The LORD protects the simple hearted; when I was in great need, he saved me. Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you”. Psalm 116:1&2, 5-7
Inhale all that God has done for us in Christ: the cries for mercy He has heard and answered, the compassion He has shown us, the protection from evil He supplies us, and, most importantly, the salvation He has gifted us with by Grace through faith in Christ Jesus. BREATHE GRACE and be at rest.
BREATHE GRACE!!!
“The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught. The Sovereign LORD has opened my ears, Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced.” Isaiah 50:4-7
Breathe deep as God awakens your ears to hear the words that sustain you when you are weary, as He instructs you, and as He helps you in your time of need.
BREATHE GRACE!!
“Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.” James 3:1-2
Breathe deep and know that you are not alone!!! We have all sinned and come short of the Glory of God (Romans 3:23), we all get weary, and we all stumble. Confess your sin, humbly turn to God for mercy, and let Him infuse you with Grace through the forgiveness and absolution received from the cross of Jesus Christ. Then, share your struggles and let God use Spirit instructed tongues to bring Grace, mercy, forgiveness and peace to you and to others through mutual Christian consolation and conversation.
BREATHE GRACE!!
“if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us" 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes."
Breathe deep and know there is NOTHING that God cannot do. There is no situation in which He does not have absolute sovereignty over, there is no circumstance He cannot handle, there is no sin that is beyond His forgiveness, and there is no person He cannot change – even me, and even you!!.
Breathe deep and remember: “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”(Romans 8:32).
LORD I BELIEVE – HELP MY UNBELIEF
Monday – (Old Testament)
Deuteronomy Isaiah 50:4-10
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 116:1-9
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
James 3:1-12
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 9:14-29
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –BREATHE GRACE!!
Saturday – Ask - Who does God want to BREATHE GRACE through me this week??
Sunday – Go to the WORD, BREATHE GRACE, and be refreshed
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – Jesus, open my ears to hear the message our Father is speaking to me today. Holy Spirit, work in my heart so that Your Words will penetrate and transform my life to be more like Jesus, in whose name I ask this. AMEN
BREATHE GRACE!!!
Before we start, take some time right now, right where you are, to stop, be still and BREATHE GRACE!! Close your eye and take a deep breath. As you breathe think GRACE – God’s undeserved Riches At Christ’s Expense. Breathe fully, filling your lungs, your cells, your heart, your whole being with His love, His forgiveness, His mercy, His Son, and His Spirit. This week as we read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest His word, BREATHE GRACE!! Listen for the Grace that God breathes into us and then hear the Grace He wants to breathe out of us. Ready? BREATHE GRACE!!!!
BREATHE GRACE!!!
“I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The LORD protects the simple hearted; when I was in great need, he saved me. Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you”. Psalm 116:1&2, 5-7
Inhale all that God has done for us in Christ: the cries for mercy He has heard and answered, the compassion He has shown us, the protection from evil He supplies us, and, most importantly, the salvation He has gifted us with by Grace through faith in Christ Jesus. BREATHE GRACE and be at rest.
BREATHE GRACE!!!
“The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught. The Sovereign LORD has opened my ears, Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced.” Isaiah 50:4-7
Breathe deep as God awakens your ears to hear the words that sustain you when you are weary, as He instructs you, and as He helps you in your time of need.
BREATHE GRACE!!
“Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.” James 3:1-2
Breathe deep and know that you are not alone!!! We have all sinned and come short of the Glory of God (Romans 3:23), we all get weary, and we all stumble. Confess your sin, humbly turn to God for mercy, and let Him infuse you with Grace through the forgiveness and absolution received from the cross of Jesus Christ. Then, share your struggles and let God use Spirit instructed tongues to bring Grace, mercy, forgiveness and peace to you and to others through mutual Christian consolation and conversation.
BREATHE GRACE!!
“if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us" 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes."
Breathe deep and know there is NOTHING that God cannot do. There is no situation in which He does not have absolute sovereignty over, there is no circumstance He cannot handle, there is no sin that is beyond His forgiveness, and there is no person He cannot change – even me, and even you!!.
Breathe deep and remember: “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”(Romans 8:32).
LORD I BELIEVE – HELP MY UNBELIEF
Monday – (Old Testament)
Deuteronomy Isaiah 50:4-10
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 116:1-9
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
James 3:1-12
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 9:14-29
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –BREATHE GRACE!!
Saturday – Ask - Who does God want to BREATHE GRACE through me this week??
Sunday – Go to the WORD, BREATHE GRACE, and be refreshed
Monday, September 7, 2009
Plunge Readings for September 13, 2009
September 13, 2009
CRAFTED SENTENCE
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – “Holy Spirit, work in my heart today so that I will hear the Words God is speaking to me. But more than that work in me so those Words will penetrate my heart and transform my life. I pray this in Jesus Name. AMEN
Scripture readings for this week:
Old Testament: Jeremiah 11:18-20
Psalm: Psalm 145
Epistle: James 3:13-4:10
Gospel: Mark 9:30-37
In order to complete my DCE training, I had to take a series of online theology classes. Part of the requirements for these classes was to construct CRAFTED SENTENCES in which we took complex theological concepts and put them into itty bitty sentences that encompassed and incorporated whatever we were studying. It was not an easy task, especially for me who tends to talk and write way too much. As I was reading through this week’s Scriptures, remembering last week’s challenge to read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest God’s Word, I decided to construct a crafted sentence on what I sensed God was speaking to me from His Word. This is my crafted sentence from this week’s readings:
Jesus is my gentle lamb who put Himself last, was led to the slaughter for my sin, and who now in righteous judgment tests my heart and mind (Jeremiah 11:19a and 20a). He is my helper and the One who sustains me (Psalm 54:4). He gives me more Grace when I am humble than when I am proud (James 4:6), and if I want to be first in HIS eyes, I should desire to be last and serve others, as He did for me (Mark 9:35).
As you plunge into Scripture this week – I encourage you to read, write, learn, and inwardly digest God’s Word and then write your own crafted sentence I would love to hear how God has revealed Himself to you. If you are willing to share your sentence, please send me a message on facebook or email at r.madson@hotmail.com.
God’s bless your time with Him.
In HIS humble Service
Robin
CRAFTED SENTENCE
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – “Holy Spirit, work in my heart today so that I will hear the Words God is speaking to me. But more than that work in me so those Words will penetrate my heart and transform my life. I pray this in Jesus Name. AMEN
Scripture readings for this week:
Old Testament: Jeremiah 11:18-20
Psalm: Psalm 145
Epistle: James 3:13-4:10
Gospel: Mark 9:30-37
In order to complete my DCE training, I had to take a series of online theology classes. Part of the requirements for these classes was to construct CRAFTED SENTENCES in which we took complex theological concepts and put them into itty bitty sentences that encompassed and incorporated whatever we were studying. It was not an easy task, especially for me who tends to talk and write way too much. As I was reading through this week’s Scriptures, remembering last week’s challenge to read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest God’s Word, I decided to construct a crafted sentence on what I sensed God was speaking to me from His Word. This is my crafted sentence from this week’s readings:
Jesus is my gentle lamb who put Himself last, was led to the slaughter for my sin, and who now in righteous judgment tests my heart and mind (Jeremiah 11:19a and 20a). He is my helper and the One who sustains me (Psalm 54:4). He gives me more Grace when I am humble than when I am proud (James 4:6), and if I want to be first in HIS eyes, I should desire to be last and serve others, as He did for me (Mark 9:35).
As you plunge into Scripture this week – I encourage you to read, write, learn, and inwardly digest God’s Word and then write your own crafted sentence I would love to hear how God has revealed Himself to you. If you are willing to share your sentence, please send me a message on facebook or email at r.madson@hotmail.com.
God’s bless your time with Him.
In HIS humble Service
Robin
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Plunge Readings for September 6, 2009
September 6, 2009
READ, MARK, LEARN, AND INWARDLY DISGEST
Now that we have heard and understand the importance of letting God’s Word get beyond just lip service and tradition, but to let it penetrate our heart. It’s time to start looking at spiritual habits that allow the Holy Spirit to do just that – penetrate our heart. It is said that it takes 6 weeks to make or break a habit. Starting with this week, let’s begin a spiritual habit to let the Holy Spirit work and allow God’s Word to penetrate our heart and transform our lives. Taking the example from our liturgy, let’s enter God’s Word and READ, MARK, LEARN, AND INWARDLY DIGEST it.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – “Holy Spirit, work in my heart today so that I will hear the Words God is speaking to me. But more than that work in my heart so those Words will penetrate my heart and transform my life. I pray this in Jesus Name. AMEN
Scripture readings for this week:
Old Testament: Isaiah 335:4-7a
Psalm: Psalm 146
Epistle: James 2:1-10
Gospel: Mark 7:24037
READ – read through each of the passages very slowly, and then read it again.
MARK – Read the passages again, but, this time underline, highlight, or journal words or phrases that jump out at you.
LEARN - Read the surrounding Scripture for context. Who is speaking the words? Who are the words addressed to? What is happening in their world? What kind of cultural things are going on? If you have a self-study Bible, examine the cheater notes for hints of meaning. Look at some of the cross-reference passages.
INWARDLY DIGEST - What does this mean? What message is God giving to the recipients? What message is God giving for you? Where do you see Grace? Jesus? Is God convicting you of something – confess your sin before God and receive forgiveness in Christ. Is God moving you to action? Pray that the Holy Spirit will give you direction. Is God offering you hope, comfort, and reassurance? Share that hope with someone in need.
SHARE - Deuteronomy 6 tells us: Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
God didn’t give us His Word so we can selfishly keep it all to ourselves – He wants us to SPREAD THE WORD. Talk about it at the dinner table, when walking the dog, when waiting in line. Talk about it with your spouse, your children, your neighbor, your Pastor, your friends. No matter who or where; don’t keep God’s Word for yourself, share with others what God has shared with you – not just His Word, but His love, His Gospel, His encouragement, His Grace.
I challenge us all to get into the habit of opening God’s Word in order to READ, MARK, LEARN, AND INWARDLY DIGEST it – in order that we can “be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2
Bon Apetite!!
READ, MARK, LEARN, AND INWARDLY DISGEST
Now that we have heard and understand the importance of letting God’s Word get beyond just lip service and tradition, but to let it penetrate our heart. It’s time to start looking at spiritual habits that allow the Holy Spirit to do just that – penetrate our heart. It is said that it takes 6 weeks to make or break a habit. Starting with this week, let’s begin a spiritual habit to let the Holy Spirit work and allow God’s Word to penetrate our heart and transform our lives. Taking the example from our liturgy, let’s enter God’s Word and READ, MARK, LEARN, AND INWARDLY DIGEST it.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER – “Holy Spirit, work in my heart today so that I will hear the Words God is speaking to me. But more than that work in my heart so those Words will penetrate my heart and transform my life. I pray this in Jesus Name. AMEN
Scripture readings for this week:
Old Testament: Isaiah 335:4-7a
Psalm: Psalm 146
Epistle: James 2:1-10
Gospel: Mark 7:24037
READ – read through each of the passages very slowly, and then read it again.
MARK – Read the passages again, but, this time underline, highlight, or journal words or phrases that jump out at you.
LEARN - Read the surrounding Scripture for context. Who is speaking the words? Who are the words addressed to? What is happening in their world? What kind of cultural things are going on? If you have a self-study Bible, examine the cheater notes for hints of meaning. Look at some of the cross-reference passages.
INWARDLY DIGEST - What does this mean? What message is God giving to the recipients? What message is God giving for you? Where do you see Grace? Jesus? Is God convicting you of something – confess your sin before God and receive forgiveness in Christ. Is God moving you to action? Pray that the Holy Spirit will give you direction. Is God offering you hope, comfort, and reassurance? Share that hope with someone in need.
SHARE - Deuteronomy 6 tells us: Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
God didn’t give us His Word so we can selfishly keep it all to ourselves – He wants us to SPREAD THE WORD. Talk about it at the dinner table, when walking the dog, when waiting in line. Talk about it with your spouse, your children, your neighbor, your Pastor, your friends. No matter who or where; don’t keep God’s Word for yourself, share with others what God has shared with you – not just His Word, but His love, His Gospel, His encouragement, His Grace.
I challenge us all to get into the habit of opening God’s Word in order to READ, MARK, LEARN, AND INWARDLY DIGEST it – in order that we can “be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2
Bon Apetite!!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS AUGUST 30, 2009
August 30, 2009
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
In case you missed how important our heart is to God, in this week’s readings He gives us another gentle (and not so gentle) reminder. Listen.
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
“Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. Nothing outside a man can make him 'unclean' by going into him. Rather, it is what comes out of a man that makes him 'unclean… "Are you so dull?" he asked. "Don't you see that nothing that enters a man from the outside can make him 'unclean'? Mark 7:14-15, 18
Can you hear the frustration in Jesus’ voice? Are you so dull? Don’t you get it? It’s not what you do on the outside that matters; it’s what’s in your heart.
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them”. Deuteronomy 4:9
It’s interesting to note the word “heart” in the original Hebrew (Lebab) meant “interior organ” and to them it referred not just to the physical organ but was the very “center of everything” including the feelings, the will, and the intellect. So, if we were to rephrase this passage using the original meaning it might read “Be careful, watch yourselves closely, do not forget the things you have seen, don’t let them slip from their place as the “center of everything” in your life”. Hmmm, brings a whole new perspective to what God wants doesn’t it?
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
What have we seen? What doesn’t God want us to forget? What is it that God want us to keep as our “center of everything?” The Psalms gives us a clue “Your statutes are wonderful; The unfolding of your words gives light; I open my mouth and pant, longing for your commands.” Psalm 119:129-131
In a word – THE WORD!!! God want His Word to be the center of everything that we are. WHY? Because God knows how forgetful we are and how arrogant and rebellious we can be. He knows that it is in His Word that we are brought to our knees and reminded again and again of our sinfulness and our desperate need for a Savior. He knows it is in His Word that we are lifted up and reminded again and again of God’s great love for us. He knows that it is in His Word that we see JESUS again and again and the sacrifice He made that paid the price for our sins. And He know that it is in His Word that we find direction for our lives and protection against Satan and his lies “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” Ephesians 6:17
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
Do you get it? It’s not what we do on the outside that matters, but what’s in our hearts. And when we have Jesus Christ in our heart and spend time with Him every day in His Word, then what we do on the outside will align with what Jesus is doing on the inside.
“Take my heart and let it be, consecrated Lord to thee, take my moments and my days, let them flow in ceaseless praise.” AMEN
Week ending: August 30, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 119:129-136
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 6:10-20
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 7:14-23
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART
Saturday – Share where Jesus has spoken to your heart
Sunday – Go to the WORD to renew your heart
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
In case you missed how important our heart is to God, in this week’s readings He gives us another gentle (and not so gentle) reminder. Listen.
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
“Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. Nothing outside a man can make him 'unclean' by going into him. Rather, it is what comes out of a man that makes him 'unclean… "Are you so dull?" he asked. "Don't you see that nothing that enters a man from the outside can make him 'unclean'? Mark 7:14-15, 18
Can you hear the frustration in Jesus’ voice? Are you so dull? Don’t you get it? It’s not what you do on the outside that matters; it’s what’s in your heart.
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them”. Deuteronomy 4:9
It’s interesting to note the word “heart” in the original Hebrew (Lebab) meant “interior organ” and to them it referred not just to the physical organ but was the very “center of everything” including the feelings, the will, and the intellect. So, if we were to rephrase this passage using the original meaning it might read “Be careful, watch yourselves closely, do not forget the things you have seen, don’t let them slip from their place as the “center of everything” in your life”. Hmmm, brings a whole new perspective to what God wants doesn’t it?
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
What have we seen? What doesn’t God want us to forget? What is it that God want us to keep as our “center of everything?” The Psalms gives us a clue “Your statutes are wonderful; The unfolding of your words gives light; I open my mouth and pant, longing for your commands.” Psalm 119:129-131
In a word – THE WORD!!! God want His Word to be the center of everything that we are. WHY? Because God knows how forgetful we are and how arrogant and rebellious we can be. He knows that it is in His Word that we are brought to our knees and reminded again and again of our sinfulness and our desperate need for a Savior. He knows it is in His Word that we are lifted up and reminded again and again of God’s great love for us. He knows that it is in His Word that we see JESUS again and again and the sacrifice He made that paid the price for our sins. And He know that it is in His Word that we find direction for our lives and protection against Satan and his lies “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” Ephesians 6:17
WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART?
Do you get it? It’s not what we do on the outside that matters, but what’s in our hearts. And when we have Jesus Christ in our heart and spend time with Him every day in His Word, then what we do on the outside will align with what Jesus is doing on the inside.
“Take my heart and let it be, consecrated Lord to thee, take my moments and my days, let them flow in ceaseless praise.” AMEN
Week ending: August 30, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 119:129-136
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 6:10-20
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 7:14-23
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –WHAT’S IN YOUR HEART
Saturday – Share where Jesus has spoken to your heart
Sunday – Go to the WORD to renew your heart
Monday, August 17, 2009
Plunge Readings for August 23, 2009
August 23, 2009
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
He’s acting like a fool. Most of us would judge whether a person is wise or foolish by the actions they take. In this week’s readings God tells us that being foolish or wise begins in the heart. Listen
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
“The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." Psalm 14:1
The fools says: There is no god, there is no such thing as right and wrong - what’s right for me is all that matters.
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
The Lord says: “Woe to those who go to great depths to hide their plans from the LORD, who do their work in darkness and think, "Who sees us? Who will know?" Isaiah 29: 15
The fool says: it’s only wrong if we get caught – as long as no one finds out, we’ll be ok?
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
"Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written:” 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain their teachings are but rules taught by me You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men." …Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that."
The fool is found everywhere – even in the church.
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
“In that day the deaf will hear the words of the scroll, and out of gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind will see. Once more the humble will rejoice in the LORD; the needy will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.” Isaiah 29:18-19
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord… Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Ephesians 5:21-25
But the wise – the wise are: the blind, the deaf, the needy, and the humble in heart. The wise are the ones who submit, who love, and who obey - not to look good, or to please a husband or wife, but because Jesus loved, submitted, and obeyed for us first – on the cross. (Check out Philippians 2:1-11).
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
Ah, Lord, I confess I am a fool. My worship of you, more often than not, is just lip service – following man’s ways of worship instead of worshipping you with my whole heart and my whole life. Forgive my foolishness Lord. Forgive me for the times when I demand my own rights and pretend that you can’t see my arrogant thoughts and self-righteous attitudes. Apart from Christ I am nothing, I have nothing, and I deserve nothing. Yet, Lord, I can rest in your love, knowing that You accept my humble confession in Christ and through His death and resurrection, I receive the forgiveness and Grace that your offer. Thank you Jesus. Amen and Amen!
Father, grant me Your spirit this week as I read Your living Word. Help me to see them as more than just words on a page, but as Words for life. Grant me Your spirit so that I may take these Words to heart and let them transform me from the inside out. Grant me YOUR wisdom, in and through Jesus Christ AMEN!!
Week ending: August 23, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Isaiah 29:11-19
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 14
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 5:22-33
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 7:1-13
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –ARE YOU HUNGRY? EAT, DRINK, AND BE TRANSFORMED!!!
Saturday – SHARE the bread of life with someone who is hungry.
Sunday – Speak to one another with songs, hymns, and spiritual psalms, sing and make music in Your hearts to the Lord
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
He’s acting like a fool. Most of us would judge whether a person is wise or foolish by the actions they take. In this week’s readings God tells us that being foolish or wise begins in the heart. Listen
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
“The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." Psalm 14:1
The fools says: There is no god, there is no such thing as right and wrong - what’s right for me is all that matters.
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
The Lord says: “Woe to those who go to great depths to hide their plans from the LORD, who do their work in darkness and think, "Who sees us? Who will know?" Isaiah 29: 15
The fool says: it’s only wrong if we get caught – as long as no one finds out, we’ll be ok?
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
"Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written:” 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain their teachings are but rules taught by me You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men." …Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that."
The fool is found everywhere – even in the church.
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
“In that day the deaf will hear the words of the scroll, and out of gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind will see. Once more the humble will rejoice in the LORD; the needy will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.” Isaiah 29:18-19
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord… Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Ephesians 5:21-25
But the wise – the wise are: the blind, the deaf, the needy, and the humble in heart. The wise are the ones who submit, who love, and who obey - not to look good, or to please a husband or wife, but because Jesus loved, submitted, and obeyed for us first – on the cross. (Check out Philippians 2:1-11).
FOOLISH AND WISE - A MATTER OF THE HEART
Ah, Lord, I confess I am a fool. My worship of you, more often than not, is just lip service – following man’s ways of worship instead of worshipping you with my whole heart and my whole life. Forgive my foolishness Lord. Forgive me for the times when I demand my own rights and pretend that you can’t see my arrogant thoughts and self-righteous attitudes. Apart from Christ I am nothing, I have nothing, and I deserve nothing. Yet, Lord, I can rest in your love, knowing that You accept my humble confession in Christ and through His death and resurrection, I receive the forgiveness and Grace that your offer. Thank you Jesus. Amen and Amen!
Father, grant me Your spirit this week as I read Your living Word. Help me to see them as more than just words on a page, but as Words for life. Grant me Your spirit so that I may take these Words to heart and let them transform me from the inside out. Grant me YOUR wisdom, in and through Jesus Christ AMEN!!
Week ending: August 23, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Isaiah 29:11-19
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 14
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 5:22-33
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 7:1-13
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –ARE YOU HUNGRY? EAT, DRINK, AND BE TRANSFORMED!!!
Saturday – SHARE the bread of life with someone who is hungry.
Sunday – Speak to one another with songs, hymns, and spiritual psalms, sing and make music in Your hearts to the Lord
Sunday, August 9, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR AUGUST 16, 2009
August 16, 2009
EAT, DRINK AND BE TRANSFORMED
Imagine if a preacher began telling his church members that in order to be a part of his church they had to “eat his flesh and drink his blood.” I don’t think it would be long before they came to take him away – either to jail or to an asylum. Yet, this is exactly what Jesus was teaching His disciples then and is still teaching to us today:
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your forefathers ate manna and died, but he who feeds on this bread will live forever” John 6:51-58
It’s was a hard truth for the disciples to swallow (forgive the pun) and it is often difficult for us to comprehend as well. Yet, each time we go up to the Lord’s Supper we eat His flesh and we drink His blood, in, with, and under, the bread and wine. In this week’s readings, we are invited to EAT, DRINK, AND BE TRANSFORMED by the living bread of Jesus Christ.
EAT, DRINK AND BE TRANSFORMED
"Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of understanding. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs9:6&10
"Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:14-15
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Ephesians 5:15-21
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him”. Psalm 34:18-22
Take a look at these passages. Read the ones surrounding them for context. What is being revealed about the Living Bread? How is God calling you, through His Word, to EAT, DRINK AND BE TRANSFORMED?
Father, Grant that we might read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest Your Word each and every day of our lives. Grant us wisdom to know and understand Your Word, and keep us hungry for the Living and Life giving Bread so that we will take every opportunity to EAT, DRINK, and BE TRANSFORMED by Your truths – in Jesus name AMEN!!
Week ending: August 16, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Joshua 24:1-2a & 14-18
Proverbs 9:1-10
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 34:12-22
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 5:6-21
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 6:51-69
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –ARE YOU HUNGRY? EAT, DRINK, AND BE TRANSFORMED!!!
Saturday – SHARE the bread of life with someone who is hungry.
Sunday – Speak to one another with songs, hymns, and spiritual psalms, sing and make music in Your hearts to the Lord
EAT, DRINK AND BE TRANSFORMED
Imagine if a preacher began telling his church members that in order to be a part of his church they had to “eat his flesh and drink his blood.” I don’t think it would be long before they came to take him away – either to jail or to an asylum. Yet, this is exactly what Jesus was teaching His disciples then and is still teaching to us today:
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world." Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your forefathers ate manna and died, but he who feeds on this bread will live forever” John 6:51-58
It’s was a hard truth for the disciples to swallow (forgive the pun) and it is often difficult for us to comprehend as well. Yet, each time we go up to the Lord’s Supper we eat His flesh and we drink His blood, in, with, and under, the bread and wine. In this week’s readings, we are invited to EAT, DRINK, AND BE TRANSFORMED by the living bread of Jesus Christ.
EAT, DRINK AND BE TRANSFORMED
"Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of understanding. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs9:6&10
"Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:14-15
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Ephesians 5:15-21
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him”. Psalm 34:18-22
Take a look at these passages. Read the ones surrounding them for context. What is being revealed about the Living Bread? How is God calling you, through His Word, to EAT, DRINK AND BE TRANSFORMED?
Father, Grant that we might read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest Your Word each and every day of our lives. Grant us wisdom to know and understand Your Word, and keep us hungry for the Living and Life giving Bread so that we will take every opportunity to EAT, DRINK, and BE TRANSFORMED by Your truths – in Jesus name AMEN!!
Week ending: August 16, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Joshua 24:1-2a & 14-18
Proverbs 9:1-10
READ
Tuesday – Psalm 34:12-22
MARK
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 5:6-21
LEARN
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 6:51-69
INWARDLY DIGEST
Friday –ARE YOU HUNGRY? EAT, DRINK, AND BE TRANSFORMED!!!
Saturday – SHARE the bread of life with someone who is hungry.
Sunday – Speak to one another with songs, hymns, and spiritual psalms, sing and make music in Your hearts to the Lord
Sunday, August 2, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR AUGUST 9, 2009
August 9, 2009
FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY
As a parent I know that if children don’t eat well, they don’t grow up to be strong and healthy in life. During the season of Pentecost, God reveals His desire to see His children grow up to be strong and healthy, not just physically but spiritually. And He knows for that to happen, we need to be fed. Last week we watched as God rained down bread from Heaven to feed His grumbling, squabbling children on their journey through the wilderness. This week God shows us where our real FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY comes from! Read on….
Then the angel of the LORD came again and touched him and said, “Get up and eat some more, or the journey ahead will be too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank, and the food gave him enough strength to travel” 1 Kings 19:4, 7-8
Because of the miraculous work God had done through him on Mt. Carmel (plus that fact that he killed of all her prophets) Jezebel, the king’s wife vowed to kill Elijah before the end of the day. Elijah was scared and he was tired. “I have had enough, LORD,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died” 1 Kings 19:4. Notice that the angel didn’t say “Oh come on Elijah, you can do this.” Instead he told Elijah “You CAN’T do this” at least not without the FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY that I give you.
Jesus replied, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” John 6:51
Jesus Christ is our Bread from Heaven. He not only the One bought us our ticket to our final destination – heaven; He is our FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY this side of Heaven and like Elijah, we can’t do this without Him.
“Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy… Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians
Jesus is the ONLY FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY we need to live a God pleasing life this side of Heaven. It is ONLY by the power of His Spirit that we have the strength to throw off our old sinful habits and sinful way of life; it is by ONLY His Grace that we are recreated (each and every day) with a new nature that is righteous, holy, and pure; and it is ONLY His example that motivates us and shows us how to love.
It’s all about JESUS – in the destination and in the journey. When we face difficulties; when we get scared, frustrated, or just plain tired; when we come to a point where we feel like saying “I have had enough, Lord,” God comes to us and feeds us with JESUS, our Bread for Life. And like Elijah, we CAN’T go on without Him. “Taste and see that the LORD is good!” Psalm 34:8 and Praise God for the abundance of FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY!!
Father, thank you for feeding us true bread from Heaven – your Son Jesus Christ. Help us to see that bread, accept it, and let it nourish our souls for the journey, just as the food you give us to eat nourishes our bodies. Help us everyday to “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To you be glory both now (in the journey) and forever (for the destination)! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18
Week ending: August 9, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
1 Kings 19:1-8
LET GO OF THE ROPE and Let God feed you with JESUS – your bread for the destination and the journey
Tuesday – Psalm 34:1-8
Glorify the Lord with me – let us EXALT HIS NAME together
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 4:17 – 5:2
Read vrs 29. Do you know anyone that needs to be fed FOOD FOR THEIR JOURNEY?
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 6:35-51
Think of this passage the next time you are at His table
Friday –be a DOG – depend ONLY on God to feed you true Bread from Heaven – the body and blood of Jesus Christ
Saturday – SHARE ways in which God has fed you with JESUS on your journey this week
Sunday – Bon Apetite
FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY
As a parent I know that if children don’t eat well, they don’t grow up to be strong and healthy in life. During the season of Pentecost, God reveals His desire to see His children grow up to be strong and healthy, not just physically but spiritually. And He knows for that to happen, we need to be fed. Last week we watched as God rained down bread from Heaven to feed His grumbling, squabbling children on their journey through the wilderness. This week God shows us where our real FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY comes from! Read on….
Then the angel of the LORD came again and touched him and said, “Get up and eat some more, or the journey ahead will be too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank, and the food gave him enough strength to travel” 1 Kings 19:4, 7-8
Because of the miraculous work God had done through him on Mt. Carmel (plus that fact that he killed of all her prophets) Jezebel, the king’s wife vowed to kill Elijah before the end of the day. Elijah was scared and he was tired. “I have had enough, LORD,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died” 1 Kings 19:4. Notice that the angel didn’t say “Oh come on Elijah, you can do this.” Instead he told Elijah “You CAN’T do this” at least not without the FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY that I give you.
Jesus replied, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” John 6:51
Jesus Christ is our Bread from Heaven. He not only the One bought us our ticket to our final destination – heaven; He is our FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY this side of Heaven and like Elijah, we can’t do this without Him.
“Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy… Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians
Jesus is the ONLY FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY we need to live a God pleasing life this side of Heaven. It is ONLY by the power of His Spirit that we have the strength to throw off our old sinful habits and sinful way of life; it is by ONLY His Grace that we are recreated (each and every day) with a new nature that is righteous, holy, and pure; and it is ONLY His example that motivates us and shows us how to love.
It’s all about JESUS – in the destination and in the journey. When we face difficulties; when we get scared, frustrated, or just plain tired; when we come to a point where we feel like saying “I have had enough, Lord,” God comes to us and feeds us with JESUS, our Bread for Life. And like Elijah, we CAN’T go on without Him. “Taste and see that the LORD is good!” Psalm 34:8 and Praise God for the abundance of FOOD FOR THE JOURNEY!!
Father, thank you for feeding us true bread from Heaven – your Son Jesus Christ. Help us to see that bread, accept it, and let it nourish our souls for the journey, just as the food you give us to eat nourishes our bodies. Help us everyday to “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To you be glory both now (in the journey) and forever (for the destination)! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18
Week ending: August 9, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
1 Kings 19:1-8
LET GO OF THE ROPE and Let God feed you with JESUS – your bread for the destination and the journey
Tuesday – Psalm 34:1-8
Glorify the Lord with me – let us EXALT HIS NAME together
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 4:17 – 5:2
Read vrs 29. Do you know anyone that needs to be fed FOOD FOR THEIR JOURNEY?
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 6:35-51
Think of this passage the next time you are at His table
Friday –be a DOG – depend ONLY on God to feed you true Bread from Heaven – the body and blood of Jesus Christ
Saturday – SHARE ways in which God has fed you with JESUS on your journey this week
Sunday – Bon Apetite
Monday, July 27, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR AUG 2, 2009
August 2, 2009
GRACE IN ACTION
Sometimes it’s hard to understand what Grace is and we often take it for granted. In this week’s readings we get to see and hear GRACE IN ACTION loud and clear. Listen!!!
“The whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron…. Exodus 16:2
It had been 15 days since God had provided the miraculous rescue for the people of Israel. They witnessed the miracles of the 10 plagues, the angel of death passing over, their children spared, the Red Sea being split in two and all their enemies destroyed. Yet here they were; only 15 days later and they’re complaining “Why did you take us away, at least there we had food to eat – we would have been better dying in Egypt.” What ungrateful spoiled children. God had every right to send them straight back to Egypt – they certainly deserved it. But what did God do? He gave them what they DIDN’T deserve – Grace. “Then the LORD said to Moses, “Look, I’m going to rain down food from heaven for you.” Exodus 16:4. There it is - GRACE IN ACTION!!!
But before we get all huffy about what THEY did, we had better look at what WE do. Our actions are no different. God has provided a miraculous rescue from sin, death and the power of the Devil. Every time we open God’s Word, we witness again and again the work Jesus did on the cross and the miracle of the empty tomb. Every time we see a baptism, we witness the miracle of faith God gives to His child. Yet what do we do? WE COMPLAIN. We complain about each other, we complain about the world, we complain about ourselves, WE COMPLAIN and by doing so we are complaining against God. “Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. Psalm 51:4. What ungrateful spoiled children we are. God has every right to judge us, declare us guilty and send us directly to hell – do not pass go, do not collect anything, no second chance, no hope.
Yet what does God do? He give us what we DON’T deserve – GRACE. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 There it is - GRACE IN ACTION!!!
And everywhere we look in God’s Holy Scriptures, in God’s world, in our lives, and in our salvation, we see God giving us what we don’t deserve. Everywhere we look we see GRACE IN ACTION!!!
“The LORD always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. The LORD helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads. The eyes of all look to you in hope; you give them their food as they need it. When you open your hand, you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing. The LORD is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness.” Psalm 145: 13-17 There it is - GRACE IN ACTION
Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35 There it is -GRACE IN ACTION
So what should our response to this wonderful undeserved Grace be? STOP COMPLAINING! Do the work that God has called us to do: BELIEVE “Jesus told them, ‘This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.’ for you have been called by God. John 6:29 and LOVE “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3. There it is. That is the result of God working for and in us to put HIS GRACE IN ACTION!!!
“I will praise the LORD, and may everyone on earth bless his holy name forever and ever.” Psalm 145:21
Father, thank you that you don’t give us as our sins deserve. Thank you for putting your GRACE IN ACTION for us through the cross, the empty tomb, the forgiveness of sin, the resurrection from the dead and for life eternal. Empower us with Your spirit Lord. Help us to do the work you have given us. Help us to BELIEVE and to LOVE. Put your GRACE IN ACTION in and through us. In JESUS name - AMEN
Week ending: August 2, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Exodus 16:2-15
Notice how God’s Grace came at just the right time and was enough to sustain them for TODAY
Tuesday – Psalm 145:10-21
Amazing Grace how sweet the sound – listen to God’s Grace in this psalm
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 4:1-16
The benefits of God’s Grace is unity with HIM and unity with others. Let God’s Grace work in your heart to bring peace to all your relationships
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 6:22-35
To BELIEVE means to entrust our spiritual well being to Jesus Christ – the ONE who is our bread for eternal life.
Friday –Next time your stomach growls, think of how JESUS feeds you with GRACE
Saturday – SHARE God’s Grace with someone who you may be in conflict with. Put GRACE IN ACTION!!
Sunday – Experience God’s Grace in worship today!!!
GRACE IN ACTION
Sometimes it’s hard to understand what Grace is and we often take it for granted. In this week’s readings we get to see and hear GRACE IN ACTION loud and clear. Listen!!!
“The whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron…. Exodus 16:2
It had been 15 days since God had provided the miraculous rescue for the people of Israel. They witnessed the miracles of the 10 plagues, the angel of death passing over, their children spared, the Red Sea being split in two and all their enemies destroyed. Yet here they were; only 15 days later and they’re complaining “Why did you take us away, at least there we had food to eat – we would have been better dying in Egypt.” What ungrateful spoiled children. God had every right to send them straight back to Egypt – they certainly deserved it. But what did God do? He gave them what they DIDN’T deserve – Grace. “Then the LORD said to Moses, “Look, I’m going to rain down food from heaven for you.” Exodus 16:4. There it is - GRACE IN ACTION!!!
But before we get all huffy about what THEY did, we had better look at what WE do. Our actions are no different. God has provided a miraculous rescue from sin, death and the power of the Devil. Every time we open God’s Word, we witness again and again the work Jesus did on the cross and the miracle of the empty tomb. Every time we see a baptism, we witness the miracle of faith God gives to His child. Yet what do we do? WE COMPLAIN. We complain about each other, we complain about the world, we complain about ourselves, WE COMPLAIN and by doing so we are complaining against God. “Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. Psalm 51:4. What ungrateful spoiled children we are. God has every right to judge us, declare us guilty and send us directly to hell – do not pass go, do not collect anything, no second chance, no hope.
Yet what does God do? He give us what we DON’T deserve – GRACE. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 There it is - GRACE IN ACTION!!!
And everywhere we look in God’s Holy Scriptures, in God’s world, in our lives, and in our salvation, we see God giving us what we don’t deserve. Everywhere we look we see GRACE IN ACTION!!!
“The LORD always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. The LORD helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads. The eyes of all look to you in hope; you give them their food as they need it. When you open your hand, you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing. The LORD is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness.” Psalm 145: 13-17 There it is - GRACE IN ACTION
Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35 There it is -GRACE IN ACTION
So what should our response to this wonderful undeserved Grace be? STOP COMPLAINING! Do the work that God has called us to do: BELIEVE “Jesus told them, ‘This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.’ for you have been called by God. John 6:29 and LOVE “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3. There it is. That is the result of God working for and in us to put HIS GRACE IN ACTION!!!
“I will praise the LORD, and may everyone on earth bless his holy name forever and ever.” Psalm 145:21
Father, thank you that you don’t give us as our sins deserve. Thank you for putting your GRACE IN ACTION for us through the cross, the empty tomb, the forgiveness of sin, the resurrection from the dead and for life eternal. Empower us with Your spirit Lord. Help us to do the work you have given us. Help us to BELIEVE and to LOVE. Put your GRACE IN ACTION in and through us. In JESUS name - AMEN
Week ending: August 2, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Exodus 16:2-15
Notice how God’s Grace came at just the right time and was enough to sustain them for TODAY
Tuesday – Psalm 145:10-21
Amazing Grace how sweet the sound – listen to God’s Grace in this psalm
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 4:1-16
The benefits of God’s Grace is unity with HIM and unity with others. Let God’s Grace work in your heart to bring peace to all your relationships
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 6:22-35
To BELIEVE means to entrust our spiritual well being to Jesus Christ – the ONE who is our bread for eternal life.
Friday –Next time your stomach growls, think of how JESUS feeds you with GRACE
Saturday – SHARE God’s Grace with someone who you may be in conflict with. Put GRACE IN ACTION!!
Sunday – Experience God’s Grace in worship today!!!
Monday, July 20, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR JULY 26, 2009
July 26, 2009
RAINBOW OF PROMISE IN THE KINGDOM OF GRACE
Picture yourself in the medieval days of kings, queens, knights, lords, and ladies. Most people lived within a manor or small village that usually contained a castle, where the king and all his royalty lived, along with smaller huts that usually housed the large peasant families. If the king was a kind and benevolent king, he would make a royal covenant with the people of the manor. This was an unconditional covenant in which the king promised to provide protection and safety from enemies for the loyal and obedient people who lived within the Kingdom.
In our readings this week we read of God, our benevolent King, a royal covenant with Noah, and a rainbow of promises He gives to His children who remain loyal and obedient in His Kingdom of Grace. . Read on…..
RAINBOW OF PROMISE IN THE KINGDOM OF GRACE
“I now establish my covenant with you and with your descendants after you and with every living creature that was with you—the birds, the livestock and all the wild animals, all those that came out of the ark with you—every living creature on earth. I establish my covenant with you: Never again will all life be cut off by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth…. This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.”Genesis 9:8-12
God is establishing His Kingdom of Grace. Remember this flood came about because every human being on the face of the earth (with the exception of Noah and his sons) were wicked – not just sinful – but wicked! Yet here God is, not only saving the world, but promising never to destroy it that way again. Why? Certainly not because of the goodness of Noah and his sons (read a bit further to see their escapades). On the contrary, God, in His Grace, saved the world because He loves the world and every single creature and person in it. He also knew His rainbow of Grace would one day come to fulfillment in the person of Christ Jesus through His sacrifice of the cross and the miracle of the empty tomb. And unlike the medieval kings who often went back on their covenants when it no longer benefitted them, God’s promises are forever. He even placed a rainbow in the sky as a sign that the rainbow of promises He gives and the rainbow of benefits we receive by Grace through faith in Christ Jesus will remain forever. It is not just for Noah and his generation, it is for all and forever. . “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1 Read on….
RAINBOW OF PROMISE IN THE KINGDOM OF GRACE
“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name” Ephesians 3:14
As loyal and obedient citizens of God’s Kingdom of Grace we bear the Name of God, with all the rights and privileges the name bears: the glorious riches of Grace, the powerful working of His spirit, the immeasurable benefits that come from being a beloved child of the King.
RAINBOW OF PROMISE IN THE KINGDOM OF GRACE
“He went up on a mountainside to pray… Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid” Mark 6:46 &
As a beloved child in God’s kingdom of Grace, we have access to the King anytime we want, day or night, just as His beloved Son Jesus did. And because of His beloved Son Jesus, we also have a guarantee promise of protection from our enemies, sin, death and the power of the devil, so we need not be afraid as long as we are dwelling in His Kingdom of Grace.
What does all this mean for us today? Well for me, as a sinful person who is the recipient of this rainbow of promises, all I can do is get down on my knees every morning and beg “God, have mercy on me a sinner” (Luke 18:13), declare with the rest of the Kingdom dwellers 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty,” ask “Lord, what would you have me do today,” then rise assured that I am forgiven and confident that I carry with me the RAINBOW OF PROMISES that comes from being a part of God’s KINGDOM OF GRACE.
Father, thank you for sending Your Son Jesus to be our Savior so we can live with you forever in Your Kingdom of Grace and reap the benefits of Your rainbow of promises – the most important one being forgiveness of sins. In Jesus name we pray - AMEN
Week ending: July 26, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Genesis 9:8-17
Remember God’s Rainbow of promises every time you see a rainbow in the sky
Tuesday – Psalm Psalm 136:1-9
Oh give thanks unto the Lord our God for He is Good – His mercy endures forever
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 3:14-21
God can do immeasurably more than we ask or imaging – the benefits of being Kingdom dwellers
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 6:45-56
In God’s Kingdom of Grace we have Jesus as our Savior, advocate, and Lord – we have nothing to fear
Friday –Count the rainbow of promises God is giving you by Grace through faith in Christ Jesus – the most important being the forgiveness of sins.
Saturday – SHARE God’s rainbow of promise with someone who doesn’t know Jesus
Sunday – Worship together fellow citizens of God’s Kingdom of Grace
RAINBOW OF PROMISE IN THE KINGDOM OF GRACE
Picture yourself in the medieval days of kings, queens, knights, lords, and ladies. Most people lived within a manor or small village that usually contained a castle, where the king and all his royalty lived, along with smaller huts that usually housed the large peasant families. If the king was a kind and benevolent king, he would make a royal covenant with the people of the manor. This was an unconditional covenant in which the king promised to provide protection and safety from enemies for the loyal and obedient people who lived within the Kingdom.
In our readings this week we read of God, our benevolent King, a royal covenant with Noah, and a rainbow of promises He gives to His children who remain loyal and obedient in His Kingdom of Grace. . Read on…..
RAINBOW OF PROMISE IN THE KINGDOM OF GRACE
“I now establish my covenant with you and with your descendants after you and with every living creature that was with you—the birds, the livestock and all the wild animals, all those that came out of the ark with you—every living creature on earth. I establish my covenant with you: Never again will all life be cut off by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth…. This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.”Genesis 9:8-12
God is establishing His Kingdom of Grace. Remember this flood came about because every human being on the face of the earth (with the exception of Noah and his sons) were wicked – not just sinful – but wicked! Yet here God is, not only saving the world, but promising never to destroy it that way again. Why? Certainly not because of the goodness of Noah and his sons (read a bit further to see their escapades). On the contrary, God, in His Grace, saved the world because He loves the world and every single creature and person in it. He also knew His rainbow of Grace would one day come to fulfillment in the person of Christ Jesus through His sacrifice of the cross and the miracle of the empty tomb. And unlike the medieval kings who often went back on their covenants when it no longer benefitted them, God’s promises are forever. He even placed a rainbow in the sky as a sign that the rainbow of promises He gives and the rainbow of benefits we receive by Grace through faith in Christ Jesus will remain forever. It is not just for Noah and his generation, it is for all and forever. . “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1 Read on….
RAINBOW OF PROMISE IN THE KINGDOM OF GRACE
“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name” Ephesians 3:14
As loyal and obedient citizens of God’s Kingdom of Grace we bear the Name of God, with all the rights and privileges the name bears: the glorious riches of Grace, the powerful working of His spirit, the immeasurable benefits that come from being a beloved child of the King.
RAINBOW OF PROMISE IN THE KINGDOM OF GRACE
“He went up on a mountainside to pray… Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid” Mark 6:46 &
As a beloved child in God’s kingdom of Grace, we have access to the King anytime we want, day or night, just as His beloved Son Jesus did. And because of His beloved Son Jesus, we also have a guarantee promise of protection from our enemies, sin, death and the power of the devil, so we need not be afraid as long as we are dwelling in His Kingdom of Grace.
What does all this mean for us today? Well for me, as a sinful person who is the recipient of this rainbow of promises, all I can do is get down on my knees every morning and beg “God, have mercy on me a sinner” (Luke 18:13), declare with the rest of the Kingdom dwellers 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty,” ask “Lord, what would you have me do today,” then rise assured that I am forgiven and confident that I carry with me the RAINBOW OF PROMISES that comes from being a part of God’s KINGDOM OF GRACE.
Father, thank you for sending Your Son Jesus to be our Savior so we can live with you forever in Your Kingdom of Grace and reap the benefits of Your rainbow of promises – the most important one being forgiveness of sins. In Jesus name we pray - AMEN
Week ending: July 26, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Genesis 9:8-17
Remember God’s Rainbow of promises every time you see a rainbow in the sky
Tuesday – Psalm Psalm 136:1-9
Oh give thanks unto the Lord our God for He is Good – His mercy endures forever
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 3:14-21
God can do immeasurably more than we ask or imaging – the benefits of being Kingdom dwellers
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 6:45-56
In God’s Kingdom of Grace we have Jesus as our Savior, advocate, and Lord – we have nothing to fear
Friday –Count the rainbow of promises God is giving you by Grace through faith in Christ Jesus – the most important being the forgiveness of sins.
Saturday – SHARE God’s rainbow of promise with someone who doesn’t know Jesus
Sunday – Worship together fellow citizens of God’s Kingdom of Grace
Sunday, July 12, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR JULY 19, 2009
July 19, 2009
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
The town’s newspaper was distributed weekly and a local Pastor, to encourage people to come to worship on Sunday, was in the habit of putting the title of his upcoming sermon in each edition. One particularly busy week, the Pastor got behind and forgot to send the title in. The editor, facing deadline, called the Pastor frantically asking for the sermon’s title. Although the Pastor knew he would be preaching on Psalm 23, he had no idea of the theme of the message or the title of the sermon. Without thinking, he told the editor, “Just put The Lord’s My Shepherd and that’s enough.” When the paper came out on Thursday the bold print read “PASTOR SERMON – THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH!!!”As I listen to God in this week’s reading, I hear Him saying the same thing. Listen.
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
“I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and will bring them back to their pasture… The days are coming," declares the LORD, “when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness” Jeremiah 23: 3, 5&6
This is Messianic prophecy, pure and simple. God’s shepherds were not caring for His sheep as they should have been. Instead of caring and protecting as they should be, they were scattering them. Who are the “sheep?” We are, but instead of being scattered because of careless shepherds, we are scattered because of our sins and sinfulness; and, like scattered sheep, if left alone we would die – eternally. But God promised to send a shepherd - a shepherd that, instead of scattering the sheep, would gather them and bring them back to the safety of His pasture and sheep pen. Who is this great shepherd? “He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” - His only Son JESUS CHRIST. With God’s only Son as our Shepherd, what more do we need?
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
“Remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace.” Ephesians 2:12-14a
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. Mark 6:34
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake….. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:2,3,6
On our own, we are not only scattered sheep, but sheep without hope and WITHOUT GOD. What a horrible picture – a bunch of sheep wandering around with no one to lead them, no one to protect them, no one to care for them – lost and at the mercy of every predator imaginable. But, by the Grace of God, our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, came and through the shedding of His blood, He gathered us, brought us back, and restores our relationship with God. Now, we have a Shepherd that has compassion on us, teaches us, lead us, protect us, and care for us. Now, instead of death, we have salvation, peace, and the promise that His goodness and love will be with us on our journey this side of heaven and will lead us to our heavenly dwelling when our journey is over. THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD AND THAT IS ENOUGH!
Father, thank you for sending Your Son Jesus to be our Shepherd. Enable us, by Your Holy Spirit, to be like sheep, listen for His voice, and follow Him always. In Jesus name we ask - AMEN
Week ending: July 19, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Jeremiah 23:1-6
Contrast the way the earthly shepherds cared for God’s sheep as opposed to Jesus our Good Shepherd
Tuesday – Psalm 23
Nothing but pure hope and comfort here with our Good Shepherd
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 2:11-22
Knowing where we’ve been, why would we ever want to follow anyone or anything else than our Good Shepherd
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 6:30-34
Jesus, our Good Shepherd feeds us not only physically, but spiritually as well
Friday –The LORD is my shepherd and that’s enough.
Saturday – SHARE ways that Jesus our shepherd is leading you this week
Sunday – Worship together fellow citizens and members of God Household
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
The town’s newspaper was distributed weekly and a local Pastor, to encourage people to come to worship on Sunday, was in the habit of putting the title of his upcoming sermon in each edition. One particularly busy week, the Pastor got behind and forgot to send the title in. The editor, facing deadline, called the Pastor frantically asking for the sermon’s title. Although the Pastor knew he would be preaching on Psalm 23, he had no idea of the theme of the message or the title of the sermon. Without thinking, he told the editor, “Just put The Lord’s My Shepherd and that’s enough.” When the paper came out on Thursday the bold print read “PASTOR SERMON – THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH!!!”As I listen to God in this week’s reading, I hear Him saying the same thing. Listen.
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
“I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and will bring them back to their pasture… The days are coming," declares the LORD, “when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness” Jeremiah 23: 3, 5&6
This is Messianic prophecy, pure and simple. God’s shepherds were not caring for His sheep as they should have been. Instead of caring and protecting as they should be, they were scattering them. Who are the “sheep?” We are, but instead of being scattered because of careless shepherds, we are scattered because of our sins and sinfulness; and, like scattered sheep, if left alone we would die – eternally. But God promised to send a shepherd - a shepherd that, instead of scattering the sheep, would gather them and bring them back to the safety of His pasture and sheep pen. Who is this great shepherd? “He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” - His only Son JESUS CHRIST. With God’s only Son as our Shepherd, what more do we need?
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
“Remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace.” Ephesians 2:12-14a
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. Mark 6:34
THE LORD’S MY SHEPHERD AND THAT’S ENOUGH
“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake….. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:2,3,6
On our own, we are not only scattered sheep, but sheep without hope and WITHOUT GOD. What a horrible picture – a bunch of sheep wandering around with no one to lead them, no one to protect them, no one to care for them – lost and at the mercy of every predator imaginable. But, by the Grace of God, our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, came and through the shedding of His blood, He gathered us, brought us back, and restores our relationship with God. Now, we have a Shepherd that has compassion on us, teaches us, lead us, protect us, and care for us. Now, instead of death, we have salvation, peace, and the promise that His goodness and love will be with us on our journey this side of heaven and will lead us to our heavenly dwelling when our journey is over. THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD AND THAT IS ENOUGH!
Father, thank you for sending Your Son Jesus to be our Shepherd. Enable us, by Your Holy Spirit, to be like sheep, listen for His voice, and follow Him always. In Jesus name we ask - AMEN
Week ending: July 19, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Jeremiah 23:1-6
Contrast the way the earthly shepherds cared for God’s sheep as opposed to Jesus our Good Shepherd
Tuesday – Psalm 23
Nothing but pure hope and comfort here with our Good Shepherd
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 2:11-22
Knowing where we’ve been, why would we ever want to follow anyone or anything else than our Good Shepherd
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 6:30-34
Jesus, our Good Shepherd feeds us not only physically, but spiritually as well
Friday –The LORD is my shepherd and that’s enough.
Saturday – SHARE ways that Jesus our shepherd is leading you this week
Sunday – Worship together fellow citizens and members of God Household
Friday, July 3, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR JULY 12, 2009
July 12, 2009
LISTEN
In the past weeks, God has been leading us to the Prophets of Scripture. A prophet, according to Strong’s Bible Dictionary, is one who “speaks or sings by inspiration.” In other words, a prophet speaks the Words that God gives him to speak. Last week, if you recall, the prophet Ezekiel spoke words describing rebellious, revolting, obstinate and stubborn people? This week, God is again leading us to the Prophets. What is God saying and are we listening?
LISTEN
"Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer” Amos 7:7
Any knowledgeable carpenter will tell you, if your building is out of plumb, you’ve got problems. Amos tells us God’s people were out of plumb. But before we start thinking– oh, that’s way back then, it doesn’t pertain to me - better think again. Because of our sin(s) (sins of action) and our sin (sin of nature) we are just as Ezekiel and Amos describe – rebellious, revolting, obstinate and stubborn – out of plumb with God. No one wants to hear that – we all like to think that we are “pretty good joe’s”. But God’s Word tells us different. God’s Word tells us we are all, by nature, hopeless sinners with no defense and no resources. It’s a tough reality to hear, but we must listen.
LISTEN
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace” Ephesians 1:3-7
Ah, but don’t despair. In comes our knight in shining armor – our hope filled Savior, Jesus Christ. The Prophet Jesus tells us we are no longer hopeless, rebellious, revolting, obstinate, and stubborn people who are out of plumb with God. In fact, the Prophet Jesus describes God’s people in totally opposite terms. In Him and because of Him we are blessed with every spiritual blessing, we are chosen, we are holy, we are blameless, and we are redeemed and forgiven children of God. Now those Words are music to our ears and to our hearts.
LISTEN
“Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him….. he did not want to refuse her” Mark 6:20, 26
He calls His own, He looks at us as Holy and blameless, He forgives our sin(s)(sins of action) and takes away our sin (sin of nature). So how do we react to all this Grace? Unfortunately, all too often we are like Herod – we like to listen, but we don’t want to refuse the temptations the world, our sinful flesh, and Satan throw at us. Instead, we should follow the advice the Psalmist offers: “I will listen to what God the LORD will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints— but let them not return to folly.” Psalm 85:8
LISTEN
We dare not ignore the voice of the prophets when they paint the picture of what we are without Jesus. But to focus on that picture is to ignore the voice of our Prophet Jesus and the Grace He sings to us from the cross and the empty tomb. Listen to what God the Lord says; don’t return to the folly of sin. Instead rest in His righteousness, forgiveness, and holiness – through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN!!!
Father, open our ears to hear, accept, and learn from what Your prophets have to say to us – especially Lord, help us to listen and learn from The Prophet – Jesus Christ. AMEN
Week ending: July 12, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Amos 7:7-15
Look at the consequences of being “out of plumb” with God. Thank goodness for the redeeming work of Jesus who took those consequences for us.
Tuesday – Psalm 85:8-13
A beautiful picture of the benefits we reap when we follow Jesus
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 1:3-14
Those benefits of following Jesus just keep getting better and better
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 6:14-29
Don’t be that guy. Don’t be like Herod. Listen, believe, repent and be saved
Friday –When the devil the world and your sinful mind accuses you – Reread Ephesians and be assured your are clean
Saturday – SHARE what you hear from God this week
Sunday – Worship together as holy, blameless, redeemed, and forgiven children of the King
LISTEN
In the past weeks, God has been leading us to the Prophets of Scripture. A prophet, according to Strong’s Bible Dictionary, is one who “speaks or sings by inspiration.” In other words, a prophet speaks the Words that God gives him to speak. Last week, if you recall, the prophet Ezekiel spoke words describing rebellious, revolting, obstinate and stubborn people? This week, God is again leading us to the Prophets. What is God saying and are we listening?
LISTEN
"Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer” Amos 7:7
Any knowledgeable carpenter will tell you, if your building is out of plumb, you’ve got problems. Amos tells us God’s people were out of plumb. But before we start thinking– oh, that’s way back then, it doesn’t pertain to me - better think again. Because of our sin(s) (sins of action) and our sin (sin of nature) we are just as Ezekiel and Amos describe – rebellious, revolting, obstinate and stubborn – out of plumb with God. No one wants to hear that – we all like to think that we are “pretty good joe’s”. But God’s Word tells us different. God’s Word tells us we are all, by nature, hopeless sinners with no defense and no resources. It’s a tough reality to hear, but we must listen.
LISTEN
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace” Ephesians 1:3-7
Ah, but don’t despair. In comes our knight in shining armor – our hope filled Savior, Jesus Christ. The Prophet Jesus tells us we are no longer hopeless, rebellious, revolting, obstinate, and stubborn people who are out of plumb with God. In fact, the Prophet Jesus describes God’s people in totally opposite terms. In Him and because of Him we are blessed with every spiritual blessing, we are chosen, we are holy, we are blameless, and we are redeemed and forgiven children of God. Now those Words are music to our ears and to our hearts.
LISTEN
“Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him….. he did not want to refuse her” Mark 6:20, 26
He calls His own, He looks at us as Holy and blameless, He forgives our sin(s)(sins of action) and takes away our sin (sin of nature). So how do we react to all this Grace? Unfortunately, all too often we are like Herod – we like to listen, but we don’t want to refuse the temptations the world, our sinful flesh, and Satan throw at us. Instead, we should follow the advice the Psalmist offers: “I will listen to what God the LORD will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints— but let them not return to folly.” Psalm 85:8
LISTEN
We dare not ignore the voice of the prophets when they paint the picture of what we are without Jesus. But to focus on that picture is to ignore the voice of our Prophet Jesus and the Grace He sings to us from the cross and the empty tomb. Listen to what God the Lord says; don’t return to the folly of sin. Instead rest in His righteousness, forgiveness, and holiness – through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN!!!
Father, open our ears to hear, accept, and learn from what Your prophets have to say to us – especially Lord, help us to listen and learn from The Prophet – Jesus Christ. AMEN
Week ending: July 12, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Amos 7:7-15
Look at the consequences of being “out of plumb” with God. Thank goodness for the redeeming work of Jesus who took those consequences for us.
Tuesday – Psalm 85:8-13
A beautiful picture of the benefits we reap when we follow Jesus
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Ephesians 1:3-14
Those benefits of following Jesus just keep getting better and better
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 6:14-29
Don’t be that guy. Don’t be like Herod. Listen, believe, repent and be saved
Friday –When the devil the world and your sinful mind accuses you – Reread Ephesians and be assured your are clean
Saturday – SHARE what you hear from God this week
Sunday – Worship together as holy, blameless, redeemed, and forgiven children of the King
Monday, June 29, 2009
PLUNGE Readings for July 5, 2009
July 5, 2009
The Prophet’s People – The Prophet’s Power
Want the job of a prophet (messenger of God’s word)? In this week’s readings God gives us a description of the prophet’s people and the prophet’s power. Observe:
The Prophet’s People
“He said: "Son of man, I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their fathers have been in revolt against me to this very day. The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says.' And whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them.” Ezekiel 2:1-5
The prophet’s people are rebellious, revolting, obstinate and stubborn. Would you want a job where you know going in the people were going to give you nothing but grief – not me?
The Prophet’s People
“I lift up my eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he shows us his mercy. Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy on us, for we have endured much contempt. We have endured much ridicule from the proud, much contempt from the arrogant.” Psalm 123
The prophet’s people are without resources – totally dependent the prophet for EVERYTHING - they have no defense and can only throw themselves on the mercy of the One who sits on the throne in Heaven. You would think that would be of benefit and the people would be more open to the message right? But nooooo, God says the prophet’s are guaranteed to be met with contempt and ridicule. Yeah, I can hardly wait to start - NOT!!!
The Prophet’s People
“Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor” Mark 6:4
Great, not only are the prophet’s people rebellious, revolting, obstinate, and stubborn guaranteed to ridicule and show contempt, his FAMILY turns against him too. But not to worry, prophets can take great pride in the strength they have to deal with all the contrary attributes of their people – right? Look again.
The Prophet’s Power
“I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses…. I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:5&10
The prophet’s power comes from….his weaknesses? Is there anyone in their right mind that would want that job? JESUS did!!!
Jesus is our Prophet and we are His rebellious, revolting, obstinate and stubborn people that not only refuse to give Him honor; but consistently show Him nothing but contempt and ridicule. Yet, He still came. He still willing sacrificed His life for us. Why? Because He loves us and wants to make sure we have every chance to share His throne in Heaven and He knew the only way for that to happen was through the sacrifice of blood – HIS blood.
This week as you read, repent of your rebellious nature; turn to Jesus–our prophet – and rest in His Grace though which we have forgiveness of sins, and the power to live, to love, and to tell others of His love for them.
Jesus thank you for being our prophet - for loving us enough to put up with all the rebellion, stubbornness, and contempt that we, in our sinfulness, give to you. Thank you for giving us your Grace so that when our sin soaked lives become weak – we know we are strong. In Jesus AMEN
Week ending: July 5, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Ezekial 2:1-5
The children of Israel are not the only ones that are obstinate and stubborn. Ask God to reveal any stubborn, prideful tendencies you might have – then repent of them and rest in the forgiveness of Jesus Christ
Tuesday – Psalm 123
Without Jesus, we too have no resources and can only throw ourselves on His mercy saying: “Lord have mercy on me a sinner
Wednesday –(Epistle)
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Our true power comes from His grace
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 6:1-13
Just as the disciples were sent out two by two, we too are sent to be prophets – to tell of his grace
Friday – Listen to the message Jesus is giving you this week
Saturday – SHARE what you see and hear from His Word
Sunday – Worship together with all the saints
The Prophet’s People – The Prophet’s Power
Want the job of a prophet (messenger of God’s word)? In this week’s readings God gives us a description of the prophet’s people and the prophet’s power. Observe:
The Prophet’s People
“He said: "Son of man, I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their fathers have been in revolt against me to this very day. The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says.' And whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them.” Ezekiel 2:1-5
The prophet’s people are rebellious, revolting, obstinate and stubborn. Would you want a job where you know going in the people were going to give you nothing but grief – not me?
The Prophet’s People
“I lift up my eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he shows us his mercy. Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy on us, for we have endured much contempt. We have endured much ridicule from the proud, much contempt from the arrogant.” Psalm 123
The prophet’s people are without resources – totally dependent the prophet for EVERYTHING - they have no defense and can only throw themselves on the mercy of the One who sits on the throne in Heaven. You would think that would be of benefit and the people would be more open to the message right? But nooooo, God says the prophet’s are guaranteed to be met with contempt and ridicule. Yeah, I can hardly wait to start - NOT!!!
The Prophet’s People
“Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor” Mark 6:4
Great, not only are the prophet’s people rebellious, revolting, obstinate, and stubborn guaranteed to ridicule and show contempt, his FAMILY turns against him too. But not to worry, prophets can take great pride in the strength they have to deal with all the contrary attributes of their people – right? Look again.
The Prophet’s Power
“I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses…. I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:5&10
The prophet’s power comes from….his weaknesses? Is there anyone in their right mind that would want that job? JESUS did!!!
Jesus is our Prophet and we are His rebellious, revolting, obstinate and stubborn people that not only refuse to give Him honor; but consistently show Him nothing but contempt and ridicule. Yet, He still came. He still willing sacrificed His life for us. Why? Because He loves us and wants to make sure we have every chance to share His throne in Heaven and He knew the only way for that to happen was through the sacrifice of blood – HIS blood.
This week as you read, repent of your rebellious nature; turn to Jesus–our prophet – and rest in His Grace though which we have forgiveness of sins, and the power to live, to love, and to tell others of His love for them.
Jesus thank you for being our prophet - for loving us enough to put up with all the rebellion, stubbornness, and contempt that we, in our sinfulness, give to you. Thank you for giving us your Grace so that when our sin soaked lives become weak – we know we are strong. In Jesus AMEN
Week ending: July 5, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Ezekial 2:1-5
The children of Israel are not the only ones that are obstinate and stubborn. Ask God to reveal any stubborn, prideful tendencies you might have – then repent of them and rest in the forgiveness of Jesus Christ
Tuesday – Psalm 123
Without Jesus, we too have no resources and can only throw ourselves on His mercy saying: “Lord have mercy on me a sinner
Wednesday –(Epistle)
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Our true power comes from His grace
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 6:1-13
Just as the disciples were sent out two by two, we too are sent to be prophets – to tell of his grace
Friday – Listen to the message Jesus is giving you this week
Saturday – SHARE what you see and hear from His Word
Sunday – Worship together with all the saints
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR JUNE 28, 2009
June 28, 2009
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“Getting to know you, Getting to feel free and easy, When I am with you, Getting to know what to say Haven't you noticed Suddenly I'm bright and breezy?
Because of all the beautiful and new, Things I'm learning about you - Day by day” (From Rogers and Hammerstein’s The King and I)
Getting to know you. We get to know people by talking, sharing and spending time together. The more time we spend sharing our thoughts, our dreams, our desires, and values the better we understand each other and the closer the relationship becomes. If that is true with sinful human beings think of how much more so it is with God. As I was reading through this week’s Scriptures, I pondered what each section was revealing about God, His nature, His thoughts about us, His desires, and His values – the more I read, the more God revealed. Listen to what I heard….
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness…For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men”. Lamentations 3: 1, 2, 33
What does this Scripture tells us about the nature of God? He’s compassionate, faithful, and has great love for the children of men. I can almost feel His tears as He watches, in our sinfulness, the mess we make of our lives. But, because of God’s great love for the children of men, a love that led Jesus Christ to the cross, we can trust that God is faithful, His compassion for us is new every morning and we are forgiven, renewed, and washed clean by the blood of the Lamb.
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths AND did not let my enemies gloat over me. O LORD my God, I called to you for help AND you healed me. O LORD, you brought me up from the grave; (AND) you spared me from going down into the pit… O LORD, when you favored me, you made my mountain stand firm;” Psalm 30: 1-3,7
You know the old saying “actions speak louder than words.” Look at God’s actions- He rescues us, protects us from our enemies, heals us, saves us from eternal death, and spares us from the pit of hell. What does that say about Him? Only that we matter to Him, so much so that He willingly sacrificed His only Son, so we can be rescued. Why would we want to look anywhere else for our security, our value, and our purpose?
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love….For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich." 2 Corinthians 8:8-9
“I am not commanding you” Such simple little words but they speak volumes to what God desires from us. God doesn’t demand that we give to others; He doesn’t demand that we serve others, He doesn’t even demand that we obey Him. He simply says “you know the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ” now love others, serve others, and obey my commands. With the Sacrifice that Jesus made for us in plain sight – how could we NOT give to others, love others, and obey His commands?
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“Daughter, your faith has healed you… Don't be afraid; just believe” Mark 5:34,36
Here again, seemingly simple words, but huge inferences about what God values – FAITH. When we put our total faith and trust in God and truly believe that He loves us, values us, and saves us (without any action on our part), God is pleased. Our faith honors God and in turn God’s honors our faith by making it stronger.
Ah, all the beautiful and new things I am learning about God in Christ through His word. Everything truly is bright and breezy when we spend time GETTING TO KNOW GOD – day by day!!
Father, thank you for all the marvelous ways that your show us Who you are, what you desire, and what you deem valuable. Spending time in Your Word Father is so much more than just reading written Words, it is sitting at Your feet, it is getting to know You, it is allowing You to build and deepen our understanding and our relationship with You. What an awesome privilege that is! Thank you Father
Week ending: June 28, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Lamentations 3:22-33
This week, Read Lamentation 3:22-23 before you get out of bed every morning – does it affect how the rest of your day goes?
Tuesday – Psalm 124
What does God’s action say about His nature?
Wednesday –(Epistle)
2 Corinthians 8:81-9, 13-15
Jesus riches supplied our need for a Savior – in return, our riches in Christ, will prompt us to seek to supply the needs of others
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 5:21-43
Notice the interaction between Jesus and the women and Jairus. Jairus Pleads “come” and Jesus goes, the woman reaches, and Jesus seeks and heals.
Friday – Listen for all the beautiful and new things God is revealing about Himself to you
Saturday – SHARE what you see and hear from His Word
Sunday – Worship together with all the saints
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“Getting to know you, Getting to feel free and easy, When I am with you, Getting to know what to say Haven't you noticed Suddenly I'm bright and breezy?
Because of all the beautiful and new, Things I'm learning about you - Day by day” (From Rogers and Hammerstein’s The King and I)
Getting to know you. We get to know people by talking, sharing and spending time together. The more time we spend sharing our thoughts, our dreams, our desires, and values the better we understand each other and the closer the relationship becomes. If that is true with sinful human beings think of how much more so it is with God. As I was reading through this week’s Scriptures, I pondered what each section was revealing about God, His nature, His thoughts about us, His desires, and His values – the more I read, the more God revealed. Listen to what I heard….
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness…For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men”. Lamentations 3: 1, 2, 33
What does this Scripture tells us about the nature of God? He’s compassionate, faithful, and has great love for the children of men. I can almost feel His tears as He watches, in our sinfulness, the mess we make of our lives. But, because of God’s great love for the children of men, a love that led Jesus Christ to the cross, we can trust that God is faithful, His compassion for us is new every morning and we are forgiven, renewed, and washed clean by the blood of the Lamb.
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths AND did not let my enemies gloat over me. O LORD my God, I called to you for help AND you healed me. O LORD, you brought me up from the grave; (AND) you spared me from going down into the pit… O LORD, when you favored me, you made my mountain stand firm;” Psalm 30: 1-3,7
You know the old saying “actions speak louder than words.” Look at God’s actions- He rescues us, protects us from our enemies, heals us, saves us from eternal death, and spares us from the pit of hell. What does that say about Him? Only that we matter to Him, so much so that He willingly sacrificed His only Son, so we can be rescued. Why would we want to look anywhere else for our security, our value, and our purpose?
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love….For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich." 2 Corinthians 8:8-9
“I am not commanding you” Such simple little words but they speak volumes to what God desires from us. God doesn’t demand that we give to others; He doesn’t demand that we serve others, He doesn’t even demand that we obey Him. He simply says “you know the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ” now love others, serve others, and obey my commands. With the Sacrifice that Jesus made for us in plain sight – how could we NOT give to others, love others, and obey His commands?
GETTING TO KNOW GOD!!
“Daughter, your faith has healed you… Don't be afraid; just believe” Mark 5:34,36
Here again, seemingly simple words, but huge inferences about what God values – FAITH. When we put our total faith and trust in God and truly believe that He loves us, values us, and saves us (without any action on our part), God is pleased. Our faith honors God and in turn God’s honors our faith by making it stronger.
Ah, all the beautiful and new things I am learning about God in Christ through His word. Everything truly is bright and breezy when we spend time GETTING TO KNOW GOD – day by day!!
Father, thank you for all the marvelous ways that your show us Who you are, what you desire, and what you deem valuable. Spending time in Your Word Father is so much more than just reading written Words, it is sitting at Your feet, it is getting to know You, it is allowing You to build and deepen our understanding and our relationship with You. What an awesome privilege that is! Thank you Father
Week ending: June 28, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Lamentations 3:22-33
This week, Read Lamentation 3:22-23 before you get out of bed every morning – does it affect how the rest of your day goes?
Tuesday – Psalm 124
What does God’s action say about His nature?
Wednesday –(Epistle)
2 Corinthians 8:81-9, 13-15
Jesus riches supplied our need for a Savior – in return, our riches in Christ, will prompt us to seek to supply the needs of others
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 5:21-43
Notice the interaction between Jesus and the women and Jairus. Jairus Pleads “come” and Jesus goes, the woman reaches, and Jesus seeks and heals.
Friday – Listen for all the beautiful and new things God is revealing about Himself to you
Saturday – SHARE what you see and hear from His Word
Sunday – Worship together with all the saints
Monday, June 15, 2009
Plunge Readings for June 21, 2009
June 21, 2009
WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH A STORM
“When you walk through a storm, keep your head up high and don’t be afraid of the dark. At the end of the storm there’s a golden sky and the sweet silver sound of the lark. Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart and you’ll never walk alone – you’ll never walk alone, again.” Ah, the words of that song bring such comfort to me - it was a song my father sang to my sisters and I as we were growing up. Whenever we went on a trip, when we were scared, when life through us a curve, my father sang that song and we knew it would be ok. In this week’s readings our Heavenly Father is singing the same song – a song of comfort, hope, and promise for a bright future in the midst of the storm. Listen to Him sing….
WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH A STORM – Keep your head up high and don’t be afraid of the dark
Job was in the midst of a HUGE storm – his family was gone, his livelihood was gone, his health was gone, his reputation was ruined – he had nothing. His “friends” tried to convince him that it was because of some hidden sin that God was angry with him, and no matter how adamantly Job denied such a charge, his friends persisted. Finally, as a last resort, he cried out to God: “Oh, that I had someone to hear me. I sign my defense – let the Almighty answer me (Job 31:35) Well, Job got his wish – the Almighty answered Him….the LORD answered Job out of the storm. Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand.”
God never accuses Job of any particular sin, but neither does He proclaim Job’s innocent, AND He never answers his question about why he was going through the storm. Instead, He allows Job to see His goodness, His power, and His presence in the midst of the storm, points Job back to the source of his strength and leads him to trust God no matter what the storm is or if we understand what it’s all about. We don’t always know or understand why we are going through storms, but we can hold our head high trusting in God’s goodness, power, and sovereignty over the storm.
At the end of the storm there’s a golden sky and the sweet silver sound of the lark
While Job points us to God’s goodness, power, and presence in our world, David shows us the flip side of the coin… what it would be like if God wasn’t there…“If the LORD had not been on our side— let Israel say- if the LORD had not been on our side… the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us….Psalm 124:1&4 If God had not been on our side, the flood of sin would have engulfed us. But David, like Job, reminds us where our hope and strength lie “Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 124:8 and because of the sweet silver sound of the name of Jesus and the sacrifice He bought for us on the cross – we have the guarantee of a bright golden future.
Walk on, walk on with HOPE in your heart
Boy, you talk about storms in life – Paul’s life was one storm after another: “troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger” (2 Corinthians 6:4b &5). But he never gave up – why, because He knew where his hope lie… in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left”
No matter what storms you may be facing today - walk on, my friend, walk on with the hope of Jesus Christ as your sword, your comfort, and your strength. Look toward the bright golden sky of eternity in heaven; listen to the sweet silver song of His loving voice saying: "Quiet! Be still!" Mark 4:39, and find comfort and rest in the promise that because Jesus is always on your side, you will never walk alone – NEVER!!
Father, thank you for always being there with us in the midst of the storm - Keep our gaze on you as we journey – always hopeful, always trusting, always looking for the golden sky and listening to the sweet silver sound of your love. Bless our time with you this week. We pray in the sweet name of Jesus.
Week ending: June 21, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Job 38:1-11
Read the Job chapters 39 – 41 and marvel at the magnitude of God’s power and goodness
Tuesday – Psalm 124
No matter how bleak things may seem, remember what it would be like without God’s goodness and presence in our world – they call that HELL
Wednesday –(Epistle)
2 Corinthians 6:1-13
As a follower of Jesus – we live in the NOW AND NOT YET Now is the time of God's favor and God's salvation, but we don't have it perfectly yet - that's reserved for when we get to heaven
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 4:35-41
Just one Word from Jesus and Ta Da –the storms quiet down.
Friday – reread Psalm 124 – what is your Storm Story and how did God get you through?
Saturday – SHARE your storm stories and use it as an opening to sharing the Gospel of Jesus
Sunday – Listen to the sweet silver sound of God’s love through His Word
WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH A STORM
“When you walk through a storm, keep your head up high and don’t be afraid of the dark. At the end of the storm there’s a golden sky and the sweet silver sound of the lark. Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart and you’ll never walk alone – you’ll never walk alone, again.” Ah, the words of that song bring such comfort to me - it was a song my father sang to my sisters and I as we were growing up. Whenever we went on a trip, when we were scared, when life through us a curve, my father sang that song and we knew it would be ok. In this week’s readings our Heavenly Father is singing the same song – a song of comfort, hope, and promise for a bright future in the midst of the storm. Listen to Him sing….
WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH A STORM – Keep your head up high and don’t be afraid of the dark
Job was in the midst of a HUGE storm – his family was gone, his livelihood was gone, his health was gone, his reputation was ruined – he had nothing. His “friends” tried to convince him that it was because of some hidden sin that God was angry with him, and no matter how adamantly Job denied such a charge, his friends persisted. Finally, as a last resort, he cried out to God: “Oh, that I had someone to hear me. I sign my defense – let the Almighty answer me (Job 31:35) Well, Job got his wish – the Almighty answered Him….the LORD answered Job out of the storm. Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand.”
God never accuses Job of any particular sin, but neither does He proclaim Job’s innocent, AND He never answers his question about why he was going through the storm. Instead, He allows Job to see His goodness, His power, and His presence in the midst of the storm, points Job back to the source of his strength and leads him to trust God no matter what the storm is or if we understand what it’s all about. We don’t always know or understand why we are going through storms, but we can hold our head high trusting in God’s goodness, power, and sovereignty over the storm.
At the end of the storm there’s a golden sky and the sweet silver sound of the lark
While Job points us to God’s goodness, power, and presence in our world, David shows us the flip side of the coin… what it would be like if God wasn’t there…“If the LORD had not been on our side— let Israel say- if the LORD had not been on our side… the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us….Psalm 124:1&4 If God had not been on our side, the flood of sin would have engulfed us. But David, like Job, reminds us where our hope and strength lie “Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 124:8 and because of the sweet silver sound of the name of Jesus and the sacrifice He bought for us on the cross – we have the guarantee of a bright golden future.
Walk on, walk on with HOPE in your heart
Boy, you talk about storms in life – Paul’s life was one storm after another: “troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger” (2 Corinthians 6:4b &5). But he never gave up – why, because He knew where his hope lie… in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left”
No matter what storms you may be facing today - walk on, my friend, walk on with the hope of Jesus Christ as your sword, your comfort, and your strength. Look toward the bright golden sky of eternity in heaven; listen to the sweet silver song of His loving voice saying: "Quiet! Be still!" Mark 4:39, and find comfort and rest in the promise that because Jesus is always on your side, you will never walk alone – NEVER!!
Father, thank you for always being there with us in the midst of the storm - Keep our gaze on you as we journey – always hopeful, always trusting, always looking for the golden sky and listening to the sweet silver sound of your love. Bless our time with you this week. We pray in the sweet name of Jesus.
Week ending: June 21, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Job 38:1-11
Read the Job chapters 39 – 41 and marvel at the magnitude of God’s power and goodness
Tuesday – Psalm 124
No matter how bleak things may seem, remember what it would be like without God’s goodness and presence in our world – they call that HELL
Wednesday –(Epistle)
2 Corinthians 6:1-13
As a follower of Jesus – we live in the NOW AND NOT YET Now is the time of God's favor and God's salvation, but we don't have it perfectly yet - that's reserved for when we get to heaven
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 4:35-41
Just one Word from Jesus and Ta Da –the storms quiet down.
Friday – reread Psalm 124 – what is your Storm Story and how did God get you through?
Saturday – SHARE your storm stories and use it as an opening to sharing the Gospel of Jesus
Sunday – Listen to the sweet silver sound of God’s love through His Word
Monday, June 8, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR JUNE 7, 2009
June 7, 2009
TREES AND JESUS
Trees come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, heights, and uses. Some trees are high and might, some are low and humble. Notice, if you will the connection that God is making in this week’s readings to trees, Jesus, and our spiritual growth. Observe.
“I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it; I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high and lofty mountain. On the mountain heights of Israel I will plant it; it will produce branches and bear fruit and become a splendid cedar. Birds of every kind will nest in it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches.” Ezekiel 17:22-23
Picture the mighty cedar tree – one of the strongest and hardest woods around. Now, compare this passage to Isaiah 53:2 and you have the Messianic promise – JESUS is the tree that came from the seeming dead branch of Jesse to bring shelter from sin, death, and the power of the devil.
“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” Psalm 1:1-3
Picture the majestic willow tree – growing lush and beautiful next to gurgling stream. God says that’s what we are when we are planted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ – lush, green, and growing.
“We have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.” 2 Corinthians 5:1b
From strong trees often come beautiful buildings. But no matter how ornate and beautiful this earthly structure we live in is, it is nothing compared to the eternal structure waiting for us in Heaven, by Grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
“What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed you plant in the ground. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds of the air can perch in its shade."
When God plants His seed of faith in our heart – no matter how small it may seem to us, by remaining in the branch of Jesus, getting nourishment from His Word, we grow strong – just like the tiny mustard seed.
What about you? Do you sometimes feel like a little twig or a scrubby branch? Drink deep from the waters of God’s Word, find shelter in the branches of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and watch as you grow closer to Jesus and stronger in your faith.
Week ending: June 14, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Ezekial 17:22-24
Compare this reading with Isaiah 53:2 – do you see Jesus in there
Tuesday – Psalm 1
Contrast the two sides of the fence – the righteous and Christ and those who aren’t – which side are you on?
Wednesday –(Epistle)
2 Corinthians 5:1-1-
I’m but a stranger here – heaven is my home
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 4:26-34
ALL BY ITSELF – think we need to do something to gain spiritual growth – remain connected to THE branch and watch the growth happen – ALL BY ITSELF
Friday – Sit under a tree on a sunny day and marvel at the protection Christ gives us in His death and resuurection
Saturday – SHARE
Share a “tree” story of how God helped you to grow closer to Him
Sunday – find shelter in the branches of your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
TREES AND JESUS
Trees come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, heights, and uses. Some trees are high and might, some are low and humble. Notice, if you will the connection that God is making in this week’s readings to trees, Jesus, and our spiritual growth. Observe.
“I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it; I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high and lofty mountain. On the mountain heights of Israel I will plant it; it will produce branches and bear fruit and become a splendid cedar. Birds of every kind will nest in it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches.” Ezekiel 17:22-23
Picture the mighty cedar tree – one of the strongest and hardest woods around. Now, compare this passage to Isaiah 53:2 and you have the Messianic promise – JESUS is the tree that came from the seeming dead branch of Jesse to bring shelter from sin, death, and the power of the devil.
“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” Psalm 1:1-3
Picture the majestic willow tree – growing lush and beautiful next to gurgling stream. God says that’s what we are when we are planted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ – lush, green, and growing.
“We have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.” 2 Corinthians 5:1b
From strong trees often come beautiful buildings. But no matter how ornate and beautiful this earthly structure we live in is, it is nothing compared to the eternal structure waiting for us in Heaven, by Grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
“What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed you plant in the ground. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds of the air can perch in its shade."
When God plants His seed of faith in our heart – no matter how small it may seem to us, by remaining in the branch of Jesus, getting nourishment from His Word, we grow strong – just like the tiny mustard seed.
What about you? Do you sometimes feel like a little twig or a scrubby branch? Drink deep from the waters of God’s Word, find shelter in the branches of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and watch as you grow closer to Jesus and stronger in your faith.
Week ending: June 14, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Ezekial 17:22-24
Compare this reading with Isaiah 53:2 – do you see Jesus in there
Tuesday – Psalm 1
Contrast the two sides of the fence – the righteous and Christ and those who aren’t – which side are you on?
Wednesday –(Epistle)
2 Corinthians 5:1-1-
I’m but a stranger here – heaven is my home
Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 4:26-34
ALL BY ITSELF – think we need to do something to gain spiritual growth – remain connected to THE branch and watch the growth happen – ALL BY ITSELF
Friday – Sit under a tree on a sunny day and marvel at the protection Christ gives us in His death and resuurection
Saturday – SHARE
Share a “tree” story of how God helped you to grow closer to Him
Sunday – find shelter in the branches of your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
Monday, June 1, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR June 7, 2009
June 7, 2009
MIRACLE WONDERS AND SIGNS
“Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through Him, as you yourselves know.” Acts 2:22
As I began reading this week’s readings this verse literally shouted at me – PAY ATTENTION!! I imagine a great deal of it has to do with the fact that my mother survived a heart attack that has only a 2% survival rate. I imagine I am a little sensitive (and appreciative) to miracles, wonders, and signs after witnessing the abundance of miracles God performed to make sure that my mom was numbered among that 2% of survivors. But as I continued reading, God revealed to me the real miracles, wonders and sign He performs every single moment, of every single day in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. Check it out!!!
MIRACLE WONDERS AND SIGNS
"Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty." Isaiah 6:5
This was Isaiah’s commissioning into service for the Lord. God allowed Him to stand before the heavenly throne and see God face to face – and what was his reaction – “Woe to me I am a man of unclean lips.” Standing face to face with the almighty God would anyone of us have a different reaction?
MIRACLE WONDERS AND SIGNS
“Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have led a blameless life.” Psalm 26:1a
David, led a blameless life? Hah, we know better than that. We know the skeletons in David’s closet. We know about his tendencies for violence, his adulterous affair, and his act of murder. Yet, here he is declaring his innocence for the entire world to see! How does that work?
MIRACLE WONDERS AND SIGNS
So, at this point you might be saying: “you’re losing it Robin, where are the miracles, wonders, and signs?” Can’t see them? Look again. “Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." (Isaiah 6: 6) I have trusted in the LORD without wavering” (Psalm 26:1b). As marvelous as the miracle healings that happen here on earth are (and I am very grateful that God does them – especially for my mom), the fact that we, like Isaiah and David, can stand before the Holy God and have our guilt taken away and our sin atoned for and can declare that we have trusted the Lord without wavering, is the greatest miracle around. And it’s all because….
“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17
Every day I am a walking talking miracle. Every day I must declare that I am a woman of unclean lips living among a people of unclean lips. Yet, I am also a woman who can stand up every day and claim a blameless life, free from guilt and sin, trusting in the Lord without wavering. Why? Not because of anything that I have done, am doing, or will do, but because, miracle of miracles, God loves me and felt I was worth enough to send His Son Jesus to take my guilt, atone for my sins, and work His miracle of faith in my heart. And know what, he didn’t just do it for me – He did it for you, your neighbor, your best friend, and your worst enemy. He did it for the WORLD! How do we respond to THAT miracle; like Isaiah: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8) and David, “I wash my hands in innocence, and go about your altar, O LORD, proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds.” (Psalm 26:6-7).
Week ending: June 7, 2009
Holy Trinity
Monday – (Old Testament)
Isaiah 6:1-8
Notice the change in Isaiah’s attitude –
Tuesday – Psalm 26
We can have that same confidence that David has because of Jesus
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Acts 2:14a – 22-36
Focus on Jesus – the author and perfector of your faith
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 3:1-17
The next time you get really mad at someone – think “this is a person that God loves more that than the life of His Son, I guess I can love him/her too.
Friday – Reread Psalm 26:
Can you see yourself as “House where Jesus Lives, and the place where His glory dwells” As Christians we ARE the temple of the Lord, the place where His glory dwells. Does it change how you perceive yourself?
Saturday – SHARE
Share your story with someone you know
Sunday – go to the altar of the Lord, proclaim your praises, and tell of His wonderful deeds.
MIRACLE WONDERS AND SIGNS
“Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through Him, as you yourselves know.” Acts 2:22
As I began reading this week’s readings this verse literally shouted at me – PAY ATTENTION!! I imagine a great deal of it has to do with the fact that my mother survived a heart attack that has only a 2% survival rate. I imagine I am a little sensitive (and appreciative) to miracles, wonders, and signs after witnessing the abundance of miracles God performed to make sure that my mom was numbered among that 2% of survivors. But as I continued reading, God revealed to me the real miracles, wonders and sign He performs every single moment, of every single day in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. Check it out!!!
MIRACLE WONDERS AND SIGNS
"Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty." Isaiah 6:5
This was Isaiah’s commissioning into service for the Lord. God allowed Him to stand before the heavenly throne and see God face to face – and what was his reaction – “Woe to me I am a man of unclean lips.” Standing face to face with the almighty God would anyone of us have a different reaction?
MIRACLE WONDERS AND SIGNS
“Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have led a blameless life.” Psalm 26:1a
David, led a blameless life? Hah, we know better than that. We know the skeletons in David’s closet. We know about his tendencies for violence, his adulterous affair, and his act of murder. Yet, here he is declaring his innocence for the entire world to see! How does that work?
MIRACLE WONDERS AND SIGNS
So, at this point you might be saying: “you’re losing it Robin, where are the miracles, wonders, and signs?” Can’t see them? Look again. “Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." (Isaiah 6: 6) I have trusted in the LORD without wavering” (Psalm 26:1b). As marvelous as the miracle healings that happen here on earth are (and I am very grateful that God does them – especially for my mom), the fact that we, like Isaiah and David, can stand before the Holy God and have our guilt taken away and our sin atoned for and can declare that we have trusted the Lord without wavering, is the greatest miracle around. And it’s all because….
“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17
Every day I am a walking talking miracle. Every day I must declare that I am a woman of unclean lips living among a people of unclean lips. Yet, I am also a woman who can stand up every day and claim a blameless life, free from guilt and sin, trusting in the Lord without wavering. Why? Not because of anything that I have done, am doing, or will do, but because, miracle of miracles, God loves me and felt I was worth enough to send His Son Jesus to take my guilt, atone for my sins, and work His miracle of faith in my heart. And know what, he didn’t just do it for me – He did it for you, your neighbor, your best friend, and your worst enemy. He did it for the WORLD! How do we respond to THAT miracle; like Isaiah: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8) and David, “I wash my hands in innocence, and go about your altar, O LORD, proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds.” (Psalm 26:6-7).
Week ending: June 7, 2009
Holy Trinity
Monday – (Old Testament)
Isaiah 6:1-8
Notice the change in Isaiah’s attitude –
Tuesday – Psalm 26
We can have that same confidence that David has because of Jesus
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Acts 2:14a – 22-36
Focus on Jesus – the author and perfector of your faith
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 3:1-17
The next time you get really mad at someone – think “this is a person that God loves more that than the life of His Son, I guess I can love him/her too.
Friday – Reread Psalm 26:
Can you see yourself as “House where Jesus Lives, and the place where His glory dwells” As Christians we ARE the temple of the Lord, the place where His glory dwells. Does it change how you perceive yourself?
Saturday – SHARE
Share your story with someone you know
Sunday – go to the altar of the Lord, proclaim your praises, and tell of His wonderful deeds.
Monday, May 25, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR May 31, 20009
May 31, 2009
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
This Sunday is Pentecost, a season of the church year in which we celebrate the power of the Holy Spirit in the disciples and the early church. As amazing as it is to read about the tongues of fire, the disciples being able to speak in other languages, and the massive amounts of believers that were added to the church on that first Pentecost, we often neglect to recognize and appreciate the power the Holy Spirit has in our lives today. Even though we may not see tongues of fire on our head or be able to speak in languages we have never learned, for those of us who belong to the body of Christ, we experience our own little Pentecost each and every day. This week’s readings declare the Holy Spirit IS alive and working powerfully in our lives – just as He did in the early days. Observe:
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRT
Ezekiel 37:4-7 “Then he said to me, ‘Prophesy to these bones and say to them, 'Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! This is what the Sovereign LORD says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.'"
Imagine, a mortal man (Son of man) speaking the Words of God (prophesy) and a bunch of dry old bones come to life. Think this can’t or doesn’t happen today? Watch a baptism. In baptism, an ordinary mortal man speaks the Words of God, and a spiritually dead person is given faith and eternal life. Amazing isn’t it!
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRT
Psalm 139:1-10 “O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in—behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”
Think the Holy Spirit was only for the disciples and the early church? Think again. When we receive the Holy Spirit, through God’s Word either in Baptism or through some other means, He became a permanent resident in our hearts which means He knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows our needs, our hurts, our pain, our struggles, our weaknesses – everything. That’s a good thing because that means that we don’t have to figure it out; we just need to listen, trust, and follow His guidance. It also means there is never a time that we are outside His presence, protection, and Grace. Amazing isn’t it!
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRT
Acts 2:1-4, 21 “When the day of Pentecost came; they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Think this doesn’t happen today? I beg to differ. Consider the sound the Holy Spirit makes when we say the Lord ’s Prayer or the Apostle’s Creed together. Think of the goose bumps you get when a congregation joins together in singing A Mightly Fortress is Our God” on reformation, Silent Night at Christmas, or I Know That My Redeemer Lives” at Easter. Or when you get one of those Ah Ha moments when a sermon or message from God’s Holy Word finally makes sense. Scripture tells us these things cannot happen without the power of the Holy Spirit (check out 1 Corinthians 12:3). Amazing isn’t it!
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRT
John 16:13-14 “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you.”
Think the disciples had an advantage because they physically walked with Jesus? Think again. As amazing as the ministry of the disciples was, the fact that I can write these devotions, you can read them, and we can all know Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior is a testimony of the amazing power of God’s amazing Spirit. Never underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit. Instead trust in it, rely on it, and call on it upon it for your every need. God’s Holy Spirit – Amazing isn’t it.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow, Praise Him all creatures here below, Praise Him above ye heavenly host, Praise Father, Son AND HOLY GHOST – AMEN!!
Week ending: May 31, 2009
Pentecost
Monday – (Old Testament)
Ezekiel 37:1-14
PRAISE GOD that the Holy Spirit breathes life into our spiritually dead bones – Then they will know that I AM THE LORD
Tuesday – Psalm 139: 1-12
Check out Romans 8:26-27 – consider these two texts the next time you are at a loss for words during your prayer time
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Acts 2:1-21
Read verses 38-41 for a summary of Peter’s sermon and the results of the Holy Spirit though it.
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 15:26,27 & 16:4b-15
Make a list of all the amazing things God’s Amazing Spirit does for us
Friday – Reread John 17
Can you think of a little “Penticost” time in your life when you felt the Holy Spirit work in a powerful way?
Saturday – SHARE
Share your story with someone you know
Sunday – Be expecting the Power of the Holy Spirit as you Worship your God and Lord
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
This Sunday is Pentecost, a season of the church year in which we celebrate the power of the Holy Spirit in the disciples and the early church. As amazing as it is to read about the tongues of fire, the disciples being able to speak in other languages, and the massive amounts of believers that were added to the church on that first Pentecost, we often neglect to recognize and appreciate the power the Holy Spirit has in our lives today. Even though we may not see tongues of fire on our head or be able to speak in languages we have never learned, for those of us who belong to the body of Christ, we experience our own little Pentecost each and every day. This week’s readings declare the Holy Spirit IS alive and working powerfully in our lives – just as He did in the early days. Observe:
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRT
Ezekiel 37:4-7 “Then he said to me, ‘Prophesy to these bones and say to them, 'Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! This is what the Sovereign LORD says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.'"
Imagine, a mortal man (Son of man) speaking the Words of God (prophesy) and a bunch of dry old bones come to life. Think this can’t or doesn’t happen today? Watch a baptism. In baptism, an ordinary mortal man speaks the Words of God, and a spiritually dead person is given faith and eternal life. Amazing isn’t it!
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRT
Psalm 139:1-10 “O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in—behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”
Think the Holy Spirit was only for the disciples and the early church? Think again. When we receive the Holy Spirit, through God’s Word either in Baptism or through some other means, He became a permanent resident in our hearts which means He knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows our needs, our hurts, our pain, our struggles, our weaknesses – everything. That’s a good thing because that means that we don’t have to figure it out; we just need to listen, trust, and follow His guidance. It also means there is never a time that we are outside His presence, protection, and Grace. Amazing isn’t it!
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRT
Acts 2:1-4, 21 “When the day of Pentecost came; they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Think this doesn’t happen today? I beg to differ. Consider the sound the Holy Spirit makes when we say the Lord ’s Prayer or the Apostle’s Creed together. Think of the goose bumps you get when a congregation joins together in singing A Mightly Fortress is Our God” on reformation, Silent Night at Christmas, or I Know That My Redeemer Lives” at Easter. Or when you get one of those Ah Ha moments when a sermon or message from God’s Holy Word finally makes sense. Scripture tells us these things cannot happen without the power of the Holy Spirit (check out 1 Corinthians 12:3). Amazing isn’t it!
THE AMAZING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRT
John 16:13-14 “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you.”
Think the disciples had an advantage because they physically walked with Jesus? Think again. As amazing as the ministry of the disciples was, the fact that I can write these devotions, you can read them, and we can all know Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior is a testimony of the amazing power of God’s amazing Spirit. Never underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit. Instead trust in it, rely on it, and call on it upon it for your every need. God’s Holy Spirit – Amazing isn’t it.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow, Praise Him all creatures here below, Praise Him above ye heavenly host, Praise Father, Son AND HOLY GHOST – AMEN!!
Week ending: May 31, 2009
Pentecost
Monday – (Old Testament)
Ezekiel 37:1-14
PRAISE GOD that the Holy Spirit breathes life into our spiritually dead bones – Then they will know that I AM THE LORD
Tuesday – Psalm 139: 1-12
Check out Romans 8:26-27 – consider these two texts the next time you are at a loss for words during your prayer time
Wednesday –(Epistle)
Acts 2:1-21
Read verses 38-41 for a summary of Peter’s sermon and the results of the Holy Spirit though it.
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 15:26,27 & 16:4b-15
Make a list of all the amazing things God’s Amazing Spirit does for us
Friday – Reread John 17
Can you think of a little “Penticost” time in your life when you felt the Holy Spirit work in a powerful way?
Saturday – SHARE
Share your story with someone you know
Sunday – Be expecting the Power of the Holy Spirit as you Worship your God and Lord
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS FOR MAY 24th
May 24, 2009
BLESSINGS OF REMAINING
On Thursday, we celebrated the Ascension of Jesus. As I am reading through the account in Acts 1, I couldn’t help but reflect on the wide range of emotions that were going through the minds and hearts of the disciples and other followers of Jesus. They had spent three long years watching Jesus teach, preach, heal, and love. Then they went through a week of hell watching Him be tortured, beaten and finally crucified. But Easter Sunday came and HE WAS ALIVE and they got to spend another 40 days with Him, listening, watching, and loving Him. Now they once again have to say goodbye to their beloved teacher, leader, and Savior. But this time it’s different, this time they know He’s going home in glory. This time Jesus is leaving them, not in mourning, but in power and with purpose – the purpose of spreading the Gospel “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) And with those words, Jesus went back home to be with His Father and prepare a place for all who believe in Him.
Jesus gives us the same power and the same purpose He gave those early disciples. Although He no longer physically walks the face of the earth – He is alive and working in and through us. Equipped with the power of the Holy Spirit, He commissions us to “Be my witness” in our families, our communities, our country, and our world. In the past weeks we have been reminded to remain, as vines, connected to the branch of Jesus Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we receive the blessings of Jesus Christ that work through us to carry out His great commission. Observe
BLESSINGS OF REMAINING
BLESSING OF FELLOWSHIP AND PRAYER: “They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers”. (Acts 1:14)
Remaining in Jesus means we have access with the Father and we receive power to be reconciled with each other and enjoy true fellowship with other believers.
BLESSING OF PRODUCTIVITY AND GROWTH: “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers” Psalm 1:1-3
Remaining in Jesus means we meet often with Him in His Word and through the Sacraments which results in spiritual nourishment, fruit, and growth.
BLESSINGS OF PROMISE OF ETERNAL LIFE: “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life” 1 John 5:11
Remaining in Jesus means we have confidence that because He lives, we too shall live – eternally.
BLESSINGS OF PROTECTION AND PEACE: “I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.” John 17:13-18
Remaining in Jesus means we receive HIS joy, HIS protection, HIS WORD, HIS Truth, and HIS Glory. It’s all about HIM!! Apart from Jesus we have nothing, can do nothing, and have no future. But in Jesus we have it all!!!!
Stay connected to Jesus in His Word, in Prayer, in fellowship with other believers, and in the Sacraments. Stay connected with Jesus and through HIS power, we can: carry out His commission, be His witness, and connect others to Jesus. Is there any better purpose for life than that?
Week ending: May 24th, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Acts1:12-26
Notice how the disciples made their decisions – Purpose, pray, proceed – all because they are connected to Jesus
Tuesday – Psalm 1
Picture a big, beautiful willow tree by the river – that’s who we are in Jesus
Wednesday –(Epistle)
1 John 5:9-15
Ah the great comfort and promise of being connected with Jesus – eternal life, it doesn’t get any better than that
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 17:11b-19
What an amazing thought – Jesus prayed for YOU!!
Friday – Reread John 17
What thoughts and feelings are evoked knowing that Jesus prayed for you on the night in which He was to die
Saturday – SHARE
Share where Jesus has shown that HE is remains in YOU
Sunday – Connect to Jesus through worship, word, His supper and fellowship with other Christians
BLESSINGS OF REMAINING
On Thursday, we celebrated the Ascension of Jesus. As I am reading through the account in Acts 1, I couldn’t help but reflect on the wide range of emotions that were going through the minds and hearts of the disciples and other followers of Jesus. They had spent three long years watching Jesus teach, preach, heal, and love. Then they went through a week of hell watching Him be tortured, beaten and finally crucified. But Easter Sunday came and HE WAS ALIVE and they got to spend another 40 days with Him, listening, watching, and loving Him. Now they once again have to say goodbye to their beloved teacher, leader, and Savior. But this time it’s different, this time they know He’s going home in glory. This time Jesus is leaving them, not in mourning, but in power and with purpose – the purpose of spreading the Gospel “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) And with those words, Jesus went back home to be with His Father and prepare a place for all who believe in Him.
Jesus gives us the same power and the same purpose He gave those early disciples. Although He no longer physically walks the face of the earth – He is alive and working in and through us. Equipped with the power of the Holy Spirit, He commissions us to “Be my witness” in our families, our communities, our country, and our world. In the past weeks we have been reminded to remain, as vines, connected to the branch of Jesus Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we receive the blessings of Jesus Christ that work through us to carry out His great commission. Observe
BLESSINGS OF REMAINING
BLESSING OF FELLOWSHIP AND PRAYER: “They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers”. (Acts 1:14)
Remaining in Jesus means we have access with the Father and we receive power to be reconciled with each other and enjoy true fellowship with other believers.
BLESSING OF PRODUCTIVITY AND GROWTH: “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers” Psalm 1:1-3
Remaining in Jesus means we meet often with Him in His Word and through the Sacraments which results in spiritual nourishment, fruit, and growth.
BLESSINGS OF PROMISE OF ETERNAL LIFE: “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life” 1 John 5:11
Remaining in Jesus means we have confidence that because He lives, we too shall live – eternally.
BLESSINGS OF PROTECTION AND PEACE: “I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.” John 17:13-18
Remaining in Jesus means we receive HIS joy, HIS protection, HIS WORD, HIS Truth, and HIS Glory. It’s all about HIM!! Apart from Jesus we have nothing, can do nothing, and have no future. But in Jesus we have it all!!!!
Stay connected to Jesus in His Word, in Prayer, in fellowship with other believers, and in the Sacraments. Stay connected with Jesus and through HIS power, we can: carry out His commission, be His witness, and connect others to Jesus. Is there any better purpose for life than that?
Week ending: May 24th, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Acts1:12-26
Notice how the disciples made their decisions – Purpose, pray, proceed – all because they are connected to Jesus
Tuesday – Psalm 1
Picture a big, beautiful willow tree by the river – that’s who we are in Jesus
Wednesday –(Epistle)
1 John 5:9-15
Ah the great comfort and promise of being connected with Jesus – eternal life, it doesn’t get any better than that
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 17:11b-19
What an amazing thought – Jesus prayed for YOU!!
Friday – Reread John 17
What thoughts and feelings are evoked knowing that Jesus prayed for you on the night in which He was to die
Saturday – SHARE
Share where Jesus has shown that HE is remains in YOU
Sunday – Connect to Jesus through worship, word, His supper and fellowship with other Christians
Sunday, April 26, 2009
PLUNGE READINGS - May 3rd, 2009 LOVE HAS A NAME- JESUS
May 3rd, 2009
LOVE HAS A NAME - JESUS
“What the world needs now is love, Sweet love It's the only thing That there's just too little of
What the world needs now Is love, sweet love No, not just for some, But for everyone”
This popular song by Burt Bacharach and Hal David was released in 1965 during a time in our country when segregation, bigotry, prejudice, and hatred abounded. It was a time of great turmoil to be sure; but is it any different today?
Oh, today’s struggles may have different names, but the problem is still the same – we live in a sinful world, surrounded by sinful people, with the very deceptive and persistent enemy Satan prowling around looking to whom he may devour. But you know what, even though I’m not sure this is what the song had in mind, it IS right – the world does need love. But it’s not the love that is defined by the world. On the contrary - we need a more powerful love than anything this world can offer. We need a love that can overcome the depravities and sin of the world. We need a love that can overcome the power of Satan. We need a love that can even overcome death. That love has a name and this week’s readings literally shout it out – JESUS!!!
LOVE HAS A NAME – JESUS
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.” 1 John 3:16A
LOVE HAS A NAME – JESUS
““Then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed…. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:10-11
LOVE HAS A NAME – JESUS
“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.” Psalm 23:1
LOVE HAS A NAME - JESUS“
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me” John 10:11, 14
“Lord, we don't need another meadow There are cornfields And wheat fields enough to grow There are sunbeams and moonbeams Enough to shine Oh, listen lord, - What the world needs now is love” JESUS LOVE!! Turn to Jesus and be LOVED!!
I am Jesus little lamb, ever glad at heart I am. For my Shepherd gently guides me, knows my needs and well provides me. LOVES me every day the same – even calls me by my name.
Lord, we need You to be our Shepherd and our Savior. Forgive us when we look anywhere else but to You for that living and enduring love. Turn our hearts, Lord Jesus, back to LOVE; turn our hearts, Lord Jesus, back to YOU!!!
Church Season –
4thnd Sunday of Easter
Week ending: May 3rd, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Acts 4:1-12
Love has a name – JESUS there’s no other name by which we can be saved
Tuesday – Psalm 23
Love has a name - JESUS He makes us lie down in HIS green pasture of HIS goodness mercy
Wednesday –(Epistle)
1 John 3:16-24
Love has a name – JESUS – share that love with others
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 10:11-18
Love has a name – JESUS; He lays down His life for His sheep.
Friday – Reread John 10:16
Listen to HIS voice as you read – pray that all will be one flock under the powerful name of JESUS
Saturday – SHARE
Who does Jesus want to love through you today? Ask Him!!
Sunday – Love Has a name – JESUS Worship HIM
LOVE HAS A NAME - JESUS
“What the world needs now is love, Sweet love It's the only thing That there's just too little of
What the world needs now Is love, sweet love No, not just for some, But for everyone”
This popular song by Burt Bacharach and Hal David was released in 1965 during a time in our country when segregation, bigotry, prejudice, and hatred abounded. It was a time of great turmoil to be sure; but is it any different today?
Oh, today’s struggles may have different names, but the problem is still the same – we live in a sinful world, surrounded by sinful people, with the very deceptive and persistent enemy Satan prowling around looking to whom he may devour. But you know what, even though I’m not sure this is what the song had in mind, it IS right – the world does need love. But it’s not the love that is defined by the world. On the contrary - we need a more powerful love than anything this world can offer. We need a love that can overcome the depravities and sin of the world. We need a love that can overcome the power of Satan. We need a love that can even overcome death. That love has a name and this week’s readings literally shout it out – JESUS!!!
LOVE HAS A NAME – JESUS
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.” 1 John 3:16A
LOVE HAS A NAME – JESUS
““Then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed…. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:10-11
LOVE HAS A NAME – JESUS
“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.” Psalm 23:1
LOVE HAS A NAME - JESUS“
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me” John 10:11, 14
“Lord, we don't need another meadow There are cornfields And wheat fields enough to grow There are sunbeams and moonbeams Enough to shine Oh, listen lord, - What the world needs now is love” JESUS LOVE!! Turn to Jesus and be LOVED!!
I am Jesus little lamb, ever glad at heart I am. For my Shepherd gently guides me, knows my needs and well provides me. LOVES me every day the same – even calls me by my name.
Lord, we need You to be our Shepherd and our Savior. Forgive us when we look anywhere else but to You for that living and enduring love. Turn our hearts, Lord Jesus, back to LOVE; turn our hearts, Lord Jesus, back to YOU!!!
Church Season –
4thnd Sunday of Easter
Week ending: May 3rd, 2009
Monday – (Old Testament)
Acts 4:1-12
Love has a name – JESUS there’s no other name by which we can be saved
Tuesday – Psalm 23
Love has a name - JESUS He makes us lie down in HIS green pasture of HIS goodness mercy
Wednesday –(Epistle)
1 John 3:16-24
Love has a name – JESUS – share that love with others
Thursday – (Gospel)
John 10:11-18
Love has a name – JESUS; He lays down His life for His sheep.
Friday – Reread John 10:16
Listen to HIS voice as you read – pray that all will be one flock under the powerful name of JESUS
Saturday – SHARE
Who does Jesus want to love through you today? Ask Him!!
Sunday – Love Has a name – JESUS Worship HIM
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